Medieval Military Tactics

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What was the primary infantry formation used by medieval armies?
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The shield wall was a primary formation where soldiers stood shoulder to shoulder, overlapping their shields for protection.
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How was cavalry used in medieval warfare?
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Cavalry, especially knights, were used for charges to break enemy lines and pursue fleeing soldiers.
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What role did archers play in medieval battles?
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Archers, often using longbows or crossbows, provided ranged support, weakening enemy forces before melee combat.
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What was a siege, and how was it conducted?
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A siege involved surrounding a fortified location, cutting supplies, and using siege engines to breach walls.
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What are trebuchets, and how did they work?
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Trebuchets are large catapults that use a counterweight to launch projectiles at enemy fortifications.
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What was the function of a moat in medieval defenses?
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Moats were water-filled ditches surrounding castles to hinder enemy approach and prevent siege equipment use.
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What significance did the Battle of Hastings (1066) have on military tactics?
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The Battle of Hastings demonstrated the effectiveness of combined arms, including infantry, cavalry, and archers.
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What were battering rams, and how did they function in sieges?
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Battering rams were heavy logs used to break through gates or walls during sieges.
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Which medieval battle exemplified the use of early gunpowder weapons?
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The Battle of Crécy (1346) saw the introduction of cannons in battle.
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How did feudalism affect the organization of medieval armies?
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Feudalism structured armies based on vassalage, where lords provided knights and troops in exchange for land.
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What were ballistas, and how were they different from catapults?
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Ballistas were large crossbow-like siege weapons, used to launch bolts at enemy forces.
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How was intelligence gathered during medieval warfare?
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Scouts and spies were used to gather information about enemy positions, numbers, and movements.
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What role did castles play in medieval military strategy?
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Castles served as fortified centers of defense, administrative control, and protected retreats for nobility.
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What were the key differences between a siege tower and a ladder in assaults?
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A siege tower allowed troops to breach walls at higher points with protection, while ladders were simple and exposed soldiers.
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How did naval warfare impact medieval military tactics?
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Naval warfare allowed control of trade routes, sieges of coastal cities, and support for land campaigns.
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