The Winged Hussars.

Introduction

the winged hussars were a polish cavalry group from the 16th to 18th century. best known for their iconic armor and wings.

Equipment

These hussars had wings made from the feathers from eagles, ostriches or swans, and being attached to the back of their armor. They fairly were well armored. usually equipped with a lance, two swords, two pistols and an axe or warhammar, even. The light armor that the hussars had meant that they were more flexible and quicker (as oppose to western knights' armor, which was much more rigid and restrictive). The loud 'clacking' sound of the wings as the hussars moved cuold have intimidated enemy troops, and horses. It may also be the case that the wings had made the appear larger than they actually were.

Battles and tactics

The Winged hussars are famous for being extremely sucsesful in combat and often being a turning tide in battles (even winning whilst still being outnumbered 5:1, at one point). Their main tactic was to lead charges into enemy lines, fall back and repeat until the enemy would give in. This tactic was made more effective by the fact that they were specialised in leading attacks to push through enemy lines. Examples of their military might include - Battle of Kircholm (1601), the Battle of Klushino, and most notably, the famous Siege of vienna. Due to the cavalry charge, they were able to free the people of vienna from the ottoman attackers whilst also ensuring that the ottomans would not expand much further into europe. However, towards the end of its lifespan, the Winged Hussars were falling behind, and started to become inefective.

fact: the winged hussars charging into the siege of vienna saw the largest cavalry charge in history (3000 hussars)

Conclusion

Whilst being officialy disbanded in 1776, the Winged Hussars still remain as a symbol of the honourable history of Poland.

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