Why was the wedge formation effective?
The advantage of the wedge was that it offered a narrow point for piercing enemy formations and concentrated the leaders at the front. It was easier to turn than a square formation because everyone followed the leader at the apex, “like a flight of cranes”.
How many soldiers are in a square?
Forming a square Generally, a battalion, with about 500 to 1,000 men, was the smallest force that was used to form a square. The unit’s colours and commander were positioned in the centre, along with a reserve force to reinforce any side of the square that was weakened by attacks.
When did the infantry square become a tactic?
The infantry square became the accepted tactic of the late 18th and 19th century for dealing with a massed cavalry attack on infantry.
Why did the modern infantry evolve into square formations?
The dynamics of the early modern battlefield meant that infantry was inherently vulnerable to the speed and manoeuvrability of cavalry who could deliver rapid and devastating charges on infantry caught in line or open order. Although it is possible to trace the evolution of square infantry formations back to ancient warfare.
Did cavalry ever break an infantry square?
Cavalry breaking an infantry square was extremely rare but a spectacular example took place during the Peninsula War at the Battle of Garcia Hernandez in July 1812 when two brigades of British heavy cavalry broke two French squares routing six battalions.
What was the role of the infantry square in medieval warfare?
The infantry square, consisting of pikemen and archers, acted as a base of operations and refuge for cavalry by forming what was essentially a mobile fortified camp. Cavalry would ride out of the square through gaps in lines to exploit opportunities for attack and retreat the same way if the situation turned against it.