Sipahi: Heavy Weight of the Ottoman Empire

Sipahi

The Ottoman Army became the most feared army in Europe. In 1453, it dealt a blow that shocked Christian Europe to its core.  The mighty citadel of Constantinople fell to the hands of the Ottoman Turks, who turned it into their magnificent capital and renamed it Istanbul. The Ottoman army credited for victory became even more well-known. It had a lot of elite units within its ranks. It had the famous Janissaries. But to the belief of many, the through strength and fierce warriors within the Ottoman army was its horsemen known as the Sipahis.

Companion Cavalry: Forging Alexander's Empire

Alexander the Great

Alexander the Great was the renowned Macedonian general that conquered the lands of all Greece, Egypt, Persia, and attempted to conquer India as well. His army led him to numerous victory. They never failed him in battle. In all his victories, Alexander always relied in a unit of cavalry he always accompany. They were known as the Companion Cavalry.

The Legendary Winged Hussars of Poland

Winged Hussar of Poland

Poland was a kingdom with a powerful cavalry force. Its neighbors knew the strengths and the prowess of its mighty cavalry. In 1638, during the Siege of Vienna, a Polish King march to Vienna. With him was an army with cavalry that stroke fear and spectacle with a display of creativity within their uniforms. The Winged Hussars of Poland became the icon of Poland’s military might.

Hakkapeliitta: Thirty Years' War and the Rise of Sweden

Hakkapeliittas in a 1940 Finnish Stamp

The early 17th century became a period of war and religious divide. Central and Eastern Europe became the battlefield of two sides of Christianity. A bold and innovative Swedish King joined the fight and showed his Kingdom’s new military capability. With new tactics, he amazed the world. His soldiers also became fabled. Among his warriors were cavalrymen from the icy terrains of Finland. They were known as the Hakkapeliittas.