Mounted Javelinmen

[Gaius Julius Caesar]

Wow dude, lets not get too angry here! We are talking ancient history here. I know I can only go by what I have read, but it helps to identify where exactly a contingent originated, and what different tactics, armour etc they may have employed. Even Herodotos and Thucididies specifically named the towns, areas a people, contingent originated from.

[Hoplitesmores]

I am not angry but i dont understand all the "doubting" about something simple that all ancient texts illustrate.History wont change because some balkan states still have propaganda mechanisms from the communist era still working in and out. :?

[Anonymous]

I think Byron made it clear, previously, that he only distinguished the Macedonian contingent from the rest of the Greeks because he assumed they would be equipped differently. I understand why this upsets you, Olvios, but I think you've made your point.

Can I ask everyone to get back to the question of Mounted Javelinmen, which we were supposed to be discussing? Preferably without any further reference to the point of contention, nor even additional appeals for calm; let's just leave it.

[Hoplitesmores]

The only detailed account is by Diodorus of Sicily, World history 17.17.3-4.

The following translation was made by M.M. Austin.

Alexander then carried out in person a careful review of the army that was following him. Of the infantry there were counted 12,000 Macedonians, 7,000 allies, and 5,000 mercenaries; Parmenion held command over all these. They were accompanied by 7,000 Odrysians, Triballians and Illyrians, and 1,000 archers and the 'Agrianians'. In all the infantry numbered 30,000 [1].

Of the cavalry there were 1,800 Macedonians, under the command of Philotas son of Parmenion, 1,800 Thessalians, commanded by Callas son of Harpalus, a total of 600 of the other Greeks, commanded by Erygius, and 900 Thracian scouts and Paeonians, with Cassander as their commander. The total number of cavalry was 4,500.

Such was the size of the army that crossed into Asia with Alexander.

Note 1:
In fact, Diodorus' numbers add up to 32,000. Among the 12,000 infantery men were the six brigades of Foot companions, i.e., the phalanx, and the three units of Shield bearers.

Hippakontistès (1600)

300 Paeonians commanded by Cassander
600 thracians commanded by Cassander
700 Various Greeks commanded by Erygius