LIGHT INFANTRY OF THE GREEK AND ROMAN WORLD: Forgotten Heroes of Ancient Warfare

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Argues that while light infantry might have had a subordinate role in pitched battles, such big battles were relatively rare occurrences. Most ancient campaigns consisted mostly of foraging, raiding, and pillaging of enemy territory, minor skirmishes and ambushes, all roles in which light infantry excelled. In particular, they were indispensable for an army traversing mountainous or forested terrain. Shows that even in pitched battles they were far from useless and made a valuable contribution, typically harassing the enemy as they deployed and screening friendly battle lines from similar treatment. Some, such as Cretan archers or Balearic slingers were highly sought-after specialists. Demonstrates and tests the various weapons used: slings, bows, and javelins, including the use of the amentum throwing strap. This yields fresh evidence and insights into matters such as range, penetrative power, and the level of skill and practice required. Contains 35 mono illustrations.