heavy cavalry

military force

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Last updated

June 29, 2026

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Heavy cavalry refers to military forces mounted on horseback, historically a crucial component of armies worldwide. These forces primarily engaged in shock action, launching massed charges to break enemy lines. Key developments included the introduction of the stirrup, improved horse breeding, and advancements in armor, such as plate armor, which allowed riders to deliver greater force with their lances.12345

While light cavalry focused on missile weapons and mobile tactics, heavy cavalry, often referred to as knights or cataphracts, were heavily armored and armed with lances and swords. Their effectiveness was particularly pronounced on open terrain against infantry formations. However, with the advent of firearms and machine guns in the 19th century, the tactical value of traditional cavalry charges diminished, leading to their eventual mechanization or conversion to airmobile units.6

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tactics
Light and heavy cavalry
The next development following chariots was cavalry, which took two forms. From Mongolia to Persia and Anatolia—and, later, on the North American plains as well—nomadic peoples fought principally with missile weapons, especially the bow in its short, composite variety. Equipped with only light…
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The next development following chariots was cavalry, which took two forms. From Mongolia to Persia and Anatolia—and, later, on the North American plains as well—nomadic peoples fought principally with missile weapons, especially the bow in its short, composite variety. Equipped with only light…
Read More