Tarentine Cavalry in the 3rd century BC, particularly during the Second Punic War, emerges as a distinctive and significant force in ancient warfare. The city of Taranto, once under Roman control, switched allegiances to Hannibal during the war, and its renowned cavalry played a crucial role, especially in breaking the siege of Capua.
Originating in the 5th century BC, the Tarentine cavalry underwent development and refinement, especially after a significant defeat suffered at the hands of the Iapygians. Inspired by Italic cavalry methods, Taranto's cavalry became a symbol of the local aristocracy and the pride of the city. Represented on coins, Tarentine cavalry reached its zenith during the 4th century BC but gradually declined and disappeared from history by the 3rd century BC with the Roman dominance over Magna Graecia.
Noteworthy is the impact of Tarentine cavalry on Greek tactics during the wars of Pyrrhus in Italy. The Greeks, influenced by the success of Tarentine cavalry, changed their tactics and military equipment. Tarentine cavalry, in contrast to traditional Greek cavalry, embraced a light cavalry style not meant for close combat. Equipped with a smaller and lighter variation of the hoplite shield, the Argive aspis, Tarentine cavalry focused on ranged combat and evasive maneuvers.
The distinctive shield used by Tarentine cavalry, depicted on coins, was shallow, allowing the cavalrymen to handle javelins and reins simultaneously without encumbrance. Their appearance, as reconstructed from visual sources, featured monochrome and unadorned clothing, emphasizing a contrast with the colorful and decorated attire of local natives.
Tactics of Tarentine cavalry were rooted in ranged combat, avoiding melee engagements. Their primary defense was retreat, advancing toward the enemy, throwing javelins while turning with the shield facing the enemy, and then completing a circular movement to return to the attack position for a second javelin throw. The absence of side weapons in depictions suggests a focus on offensive capabilities, possibly aided by assistants providing additional javelins on the battlefield.
In the 3rd century BC, the shields of Tarentine cavalry depicted on coins bore the eight-pointed Macedonian star, a symbol likely adopted during the expedition of Pyrrhus in Italy. The only additional protection for the cavalrymen, aside from the shield, was the Hellenistic Attic helmet, replacing the Boeotian helmet and following the example of the armies of Alexander's successors.
In conclusion, Tarentine cavalry stands out as a unique and influential force in ancient warfare, shaping tactics and equipment during a critical period. Their adaptability, focus on ranged combat, and the visual representation of their distinctive shield and attire underscore their significance in the military landscape of the 3rd century BC.
SOURCES:
www.worldhistory.org/
www.britannica.com/
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