06-23-2006, 05:03 PM
Quote:Correct impression. The answer to the question is that the Bactrian camel was not accessible in sufficient numbers.
Why not breeding?
There was this famous Han Chinese expedition to the Fergana valley in the late 2nd century BC, where the Chinese went at great pains to get their hands on the "heavenly horses". Alright, the camel did not play the role the horse had, not even in transportation, but one could expect from the Romans a more serious effort, if the Bactrian camel promised sufficient advantages, couldnt you?
Is there BTW any overview article on the military role of camels and dromedaries?
Stefan (Literary references to the discussed topics are always appreciated.)
