How did the structure of armies evolve from 750 to 1500?

From 750 to 1500, armies evolved from primarily infantry-based forces to more complex structures with specialised units and professional soldiers.

In the early part of this period, around 750, armies were largely made up of infantry soldiers. These were often peasants or commoners who were called up to fight in times of war. They were typically armed with simple weapons such as spears and shields, and their training was minimal. The structure of these armies was simple, with soldiers grouped together in large units with little specialisation or differentiation.

However, as the Middle Ages progressed, the structure of armies began to change. The rise of feudalism in Europe led to the development of a warrior class of knights, who served as heavy cavalry. These knights were professional soldiers, often of noble birth, who were trained in combat from a young age. They were heavily armoured and rode on horseback, making them a formidable force on the battlefield. The use of knights led to a more hierarchical structure in armies, with knights serving as commanders of units of lesser soldiers.

In addition to knights, the Middle Ages also saw the development of specialised units within armies. Archers became an important part of many armies, providing long-range firepower. Similarly, the use of siege weapons such as catapults and trebuchets became more common, leading to the creation of specialised siege units. These developments led to a more complex structure within armies, with different units having different roles and responsibilities on the battlefield.

By 1500, the structure of armies had evolved significantly from the simple, infantry-based forces of 750. Armies were now made up of a mix of professional soldiers and conscripted peasants, with a clear hierarchy and a variety of specialised units. This evolution in the structure of armies reflected changes in society and technology during the Middle Ages, and set the stage for further developments in military organisation in the centuries to come.