What resources were critical to maintaining medieval armies?

Critical resources for maintaining medieval armies included manpower, food, weapons, horses, and financial resources for wages and supplies.

Manpower was the most fundamental resource for any medieval army. The size of an army was often determined by the population of the kingdom or empire it served. The larger the population, the larger the potential army. However, not all men were suitable for military service. They had to be of the right age, in good health, and willing to fight. In some societies, military service was a duty of all free men, while in others it was a profession for a select few.

Food was another critical resource. An army marches on its stomach, as the saying goes. Medieval armies required vast amounts of food to sustain themselves, especially during long campaigns. This included not only the soldiers' rations but also fodder for their horses. The logistics of supplying an army with food were a major challenge. Armies often lived off the land, plundering the countryside for food. However, this could lead to conflict with the local population and even cause famine.

Weapons were essential for any army. In the medieval period, this included swords, spears, bows, and later, firearms. The production of weapons was a major industry, requiring skilled craftsmen and raw materials. The quality of an army's weapons could be a decisive factor in battle.

Horses were another important resource. They were used for transportation, in battle, and for carrying supplies. The breeding and training of horses was a specialised skill, and the loss of horses could severely hamper an army's ability to fight or move.

Finally, financial resources were crucial. Maintaining an army was expensive. Soldiers needed to be paid, weapons and equipment had to be purchased, and food had to be procured. The wealth of a kingdom or empire was often a key factor in its military strength. Taxes, tribute, and plunder were the main sources of income for medieval armies.

In conclusion, maintaining a medieval army required a complex mix of resources. The availability of these resources was often a key factor in the success or failure of a military campaign.