Warfare > Cavalry

Ancient Greek Cavalry

Background

Ancient Greek cavalry played an important role in Greek warfare, although it was not as dominant as the infantry-based hoplite phalanx. The effectiveness and prominence of cavalry varied among different Greek city-states and periods. Over time, Greek cavalry units evolved and adapted to meet the changing demands of warfare, particularly during the Hellenistic period following the conquests of Alexander the Great.

Early Greek Cavalry

1. Archaic and Classical Periods:

   • Limited Role: In the early periods of Greek warfare, cavalry was relatively limited due to the rough terrain of Greece and the high costs associated with maintaining horses. Most city-states relied heavily on their hoplite infantry.
   • Wealth and Nobility: Cavalry was typically composed of wealthier citizens who could afford the expenses of breeding, training, and maintaining horses. This often included members of the aristocracy and the upper class.

2. Equipment and Tactics:

   • Weapons: Early Greek cavalrymen were armed with spears (xyston) for thrusting and short swords (xiphos) for close combat. They did not carry shields, as they needed their hands free to control their horses.
   • Armor: Cavalry armor varied, with wealthier cavalrymen wearing bronze helmets, cuirasses, and greaves. However, lighter armor was often preferred to maintain mobility.
   • Tactics: The primary role of early Greek cavalry was to provide support to the hoplite phalanx. They were used for reconnaissance, skirmishing, flanking maneuvers, and chasing down fleeing enemies.

Prominent Greek City-States with Cavalry

1. Athens:

   • Athenian Cavalry: Athens developed a notable cavalry force, particularly during the Peloponnesian War. The Athenian cavalry was organized into two hipparchies (units), each commanded by a hipparch.
   • Roles and Effectiveness: Athenian cavalry was used for patrolling, raiding enemy territory, and supporting the infantry. They played significant roles in several battles and skirmishes during the Peloponnesian War.

2. Sparta:

   • Limited Cavalry: Sparta, known for its focus on hoplite infantry, had a relatively limited cavalry force. Spartan cavalry was often considered less effective compared to other Greek city-states.
   • Strategic Use: Despite their smaller numbers, Spartan cavalry was employed for strategic purposes, such as protecting the flanks of the phalanx and pursuing retreating enemies.

3. Thessaly:

   • Thessalian Cavalry: Thessaly was renowned for its excellent cavalry. The flat plains of Thessaly were well-suited for breeding and training horses, and Thessalian cavalry became highly respected throughout Greece.
   • Tactical Superiority: Thessalian cavalry was known for its tactical superiority, including the use of the double envelopment maneuver. They were frequently hired as mercenaries by other Greek city-states.

Hellenistic Cavalry

1. Philip II and Alexander the Great:

   • Macedonian Cavalry Innovations: Philip II of Macedon significantly reformed and expanded the Macedonian cavalry. He established the Companion Cavalry (Hetairoi), an elite unit that played a crucial role in Macedonian military successes.
   • Alexander the Great: Alexander the Great further enhanced the role of cavalry in his campaigns. The Companion Cavalry, led personally by Alexander in many battles, was instrumental in achieving decisive victories, such as the Battle of Issus and the Battle of Gaugamela.

2. Hellenistic Kingdoms:

   • Successor States: After Alexander's death, his generals (the Diadochi) continued to use and develop cavalry forces in their respective kingdoms. The Seleucids, Ptolemies, and other Hellenistic states maintained powerful cavalry units.
   • Combined Arms Tactics: Hellenistic armies employed combined arms tactics, integrating cavalry with infantry and other units. Cavalry units included heavy cavalry (cataphracts) and light cavalry, each serving specific battlefield roles.

Roles and Types of Hellenistic Cavalry

1. Heavy Cavalry:

   • Companion Cavalry: The elite heavy cavalry of Macedon, known for its shock tactics and decisive charges.
   • Cataphracts: Heavily armored cavalry used by Hellenistic armies, particularly by the Seleucids. Cataphracts were protected by scale armor covering both rider and horse.

2. Light Cavalry:

   • Scouts and Skirmishers: Light cavalry units were used for reconnaissance, skirmishing, and harassing enemy forces. They were typically armed with javelins or bows and wore lighter armor.
   • Tarentines: Named after the Greek city of Tarentum in southern Italy, Tarentine cavalry were skilled light cavalrymen who used both spears and javelins. They were known for their mobility and flexibility in battle.

Conclusion

Ancient Greek cavalry, though initially limited in its role and prominence, evolved significantly over time, particularly during the Hellenistic period. The cavalry of different Greek city-states played crucial roles in various military campaigns, providing mobility, tactical flexibility, and support to the dominant hoplite infantry. The innovations and successes of Macedonian cavalry under Philip II and Alexander the Great set new standards for cavalry tactics and organization, influencing subsequent Hellenistic armies and leaving a lasting legacy in military history.

Sources

Greek Warfare