Carolingian Cavalryman AD 768-987

Description

The army of Charlemagne and his successors enabled the western Franks to recreate what contemporaries regarded as a 'reborn' western Roman empire. Frankish society was well prepared for war, with outstanding communications drawing together the disparate regions of a large empire. The role of mounted troops, the essential striking force of the Frankish army, is explored here. Alongside it was the impact that new technology, such as stirrups, had on warfare in this period. Illuminating a much-neglected area of history, this book shows how the role of cavalry grew in prestige, as the Carolingian armoured horseman gave way to the knight of the early 10th century.

Born in 1944, David Nicolle worked in the BBC's Arabic service for a number of years before gaining an MA from the School of Oriental and African Studies, London, and a doctorate from Edinburgh University. He has written numerous books and articles on medieval and Islamic warfare, and has been a prolific author of Osprey titles for many years. Wayne Reynolds attended art college in Middlesborough. He has worked as a professional artist since 1991, providing illustrations and source material for many gaming companies, creating figures, landscapes and interiors, as well as core characterisation. He is best known for his work on titles such as '2000 AD', 'Slaine' and 'Judge Dredd'. Wayne is also a keen modeller and historical re-enactor.