07-27-2007, 08:20 AM
Quote:Yes, Hohenfriedberg is a good example, I can think of others in which even cavalry alone routed both enemy cavalry and infantry, like St Quentin, Gembloux, Tournhout...
Cavalry remained the arm of decision in most battles from XVI to XIX century
For every example there are examples which tell us the contrary. Think f.e. of the unsuccessful attacks of Blüchers cavalry at Auerstedt. The French infantry was in line and repelled three charges of the Prussian cavalry (which was yet also under fire from some cannons). In my opinion all branches of the arms needed to play together.
The cavalry reglements of the time after 1815 at least normally did not recommend attacks against solid infantry formations which were not moving or shattered by artillery or infantry before.
In the ancient times the cavalry had not to face gun fire. A worthful advantage. On the other hand they faced frequently long staff weapons and great shields, not so nice too. Ok, I will stop this ot theme now. :wink:
Wolfgang Zeiler
