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In History / High School | 2014-11-23

Did the later Roman army ever develop a cavalry?

Asked by Hardisty697

Answer (3)

Of course Did they had to because they went against lots of strong army's

Answered by madisonnicole1 | 2024-06-10

The later Roman army did indeed develop a significant cavalry force, improving both their equipment and tactics over time. The cavalry evolved from lightly armed scouts to heavily armored Cataphracti, proficient with both lance and bow, as seen in the Byzantine Empire's military forces.

Yes, the later Roman army did develop a significant cavalry component. Initially, Roman cavalrymen were not much more than mounted scouts with minimal armor and weaponry. However, over time, through encounters with various enemies and the absorption of different cultures, the Romans improved both their tactics and the equipment of their cavalry. The introduction of saddles and the adoption of defensive gear such as spears, mail armor, and leg protections like high boots and leathern drawers significantly enhanced the cavalry's effectiveness.
By the time of the Byzantine Empire, the Roman army's mailed horsemen (Cataphracti), who were heavily armored and carried both lances and bows, became renowned. This evolution reflects a broader historical trend where, before the advent of gunpowder, cavalry units were among the most effective military forces. They offered mobility, the ability to quickly engage and disengage, and the power to deliver devastating blows to infantry formations. Only with the introduction of guns did the tactical predominance of cavalry begin to wane, as firearms could neutralize mounted units before they could close in on enemy foot soldiers.

Answered by Yakavi | 2024-06-24

The later Roman army developed a significant cavalry force that evolved from light troops to heavily armored units known as Cataphracti. This transformation was influenced by encounters with other cultures and the strategic needs of the empire, especially under leaders like Diocletian. By the time of the Byzantine Empire, cavalry had become a key component of the Roman military.
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Answered by Yakavi | 2024-11-01