News Update August 18th, 2025 - The Ancients (2 Viewers)

Julie

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JJDESIGNS NEWS UPDATE 18th AUGUST 2025
THE ANCIENTS

ARMIES AND ENEMIES OF GREECE AND MACEDONIA
THE ACHAEMENID PERSIAN ARMY
PERSIAN HEAVY CAVALRY


The Achaemenid Empire c. 550–330 BC, also called the First Persian Empire, was an ancient Iranian empire based in Western Asia founded by Cyrus the Great. Ranging at its greatest extent from the Balkans in the west to the Indus Valley in the east, it was larger than any previous empire in history, spanning 5.5 (or 8) million square kilometers. Incorporating various peoples of different origins and faiths, it is notable for its successful model of a centralised, bureaucratic administration (through satraps under the King of Kings), for building infrastructure such as road systems and a postal system, the use of an official language across its territories, and the development of civil services and a large professional army. The empire's successes inspired similar systems in later empires.

The Achaemenid Empire encompassed a vast and diverse range of territories, from Anatolia and Egypt to the Indus Valley. This diversity was reflected in its cavalry, which included units from various ethnic groups such as Medes, Persians, Bactrians, Scythians, and Sakas.
Each group brought its own unique style of cavalry warfare, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the Achaemenid cavalry.

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The Achaemenid cavalry was highly mobile, allowing it to perform a variety of roles on the battlefield. This included flanking manoeuvers, rapid assaults, and the ability to respond quickly to changing battlefield conditions.
The cavalry often worked in conjunction with other units, such as infantry and archers. Light cavalry could soften enemy positions before a heavy cavalry charge, while also providing protection for flanks and rear areas.

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Light cavalry units were adept at skirmishing, using their speed and agility to harass enemy formations, disrupt supply lines, and gather intelligence. Their primary tactic was to shower the enemy with arrows from a distance and then retreat before the enemy could engage them in close combat.
These units were highly mobile and used for reconnaissance, skirmishing, and rapid attacks. They typically carried lighter weapons such as bows and javelins.

Heavy cavalry, including the Cataphracts, were used for decisive charges aimed at breaking through enemy lines. Their powerful charges, combined with the weight and protection of their armour, could cause significant disruption and panic among enemy troops.
These units were heavily armoured and used for shock tactics. They carried lances, swords, and wore scale or lamellar armour for protection.

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At Gaugamela, the Persian cavalry under Darius III attempted to outflank Alexander the Great’s forces but was ultimately defeated due to the superior tactics and discipline of the Macedonian army.

The effectiveness of the Achaemenid cavalry was also crucial for maintaining control over the vast territories of the Persian Empire. Their mobility allowed them to respond quickly to rebellions, invasions, and other threats.

The tactics and organization of the Achaemenid cavalry influenced subsequent cavalry forces in the region. The concept of heavily armoured cavalry, in particular, was adopted and further developed by later empires, including the Parthians and Sassanids.

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The horses used by the Achaemenid cavalry were carefully bred and trained. The Nisaean horses of Media were particularly prized for their size and strength, often used by heavy cavalry.
Horse armor (bardings) was sometimes used to protect the mounts of heavy cavalry units.

CYRUS THE YOUNGERS’ BODYGUARD

Based on Xenophon’s descriptions of Cyrus’ bodyguard at the Battle of Kounaxa in 401BC, they are described as having a cuirass under the red tunic, and a bronze helmet. The general appearance of recent illustrations are inspired by a relief in Turkey, which shows a Persian cavalryman with a crested pilos helmet fighting a Greek Hoplite.
Another part of the relief shows bronze horse’s head-armour, and horse’s breast armour of embossed bronze or leather.
It has also been described that the guard wore matching thigh and leg guards.

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The Achaemenid cavalry was a vital component of the Persian military, known for its diversity, mobility, and tactical versatility.
Comprising both light and heavy units, the cavalry was capable of performing a wide range of roles on the battlefield, from skirmishing and reconnaissance to delivering devastating charges.
The effectiveness of the Achaemenid cavalry was instrumental in maintaining the vast Achaemenid Empire and left a lasting legacy on the development of cavalry warfare in the ancient world.

The First sets of Persian Heavy Cavalry will be available in October.

Best wishes,
john jenkins
 

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