Was There Any Changes To The Compostion Of English Armies 1250-1500 Flashcards
By 1500 what where the two significant changes
The vast majority of infantry men where longbow men
Knights usually fought dismounted
What was the size like of the English armies during the Middle Ages
It would fluctuate through out this period due to there being no standing army. The armies size also depended on the level of threat.
How did infantry change during the Middle Ages 1250-1500
The amount of infantry usually stayed at 75-90% but what did change was the type. By the late 14th century most where longbow men although not professionals or permanent soldiers they had to be skilled compared to the untrained agricultural labourers armed basic spears they had improved.
Why where longbow men becoming an increasing part of an armies composition ?
It played an increasingly important role during the 1300’s. New formations placed archers at the flanks. Battles often began with archers firing devastating volleys into the enemy which was very effective in weakening them.
Why was there a decline in the role of mounted knights during this time
At the start of the period they played a decisive role. Later there was a decline in the role as armies tended to use dismounted knights in the centre of the battlefield. Plate armour gave them good protection in hand to hand combat and this paired with the chivalric culture at the time. Mounted knights would still play a crucial role in mounted raids
Where there any changes to positions of command
No, knights where commanded by bannerets and positions in the army would be chosen by social status and structure. Command roles would usually be given to those with the title earl or duke.
Chivalry and the culture around it
Chivalry was a code of conduct in battle and a culture of the social elites. It stressed military skill service and bravery. It impacted the way wars where fought. Arrows and bolts: cowardly. Hand to hand combat: brave. This also applied to both sides being treated with respect if a knight surrendered he shouldn’t be killed but taken ransom instead.
