So why did the Romans, with vastly more fertile land at their disposal, choose to pay their soldiers in coins?
Long term professional soldiers can't spend land until after they retire...
So why did the Romans, with vastly more fertile land at their disposal, choose to pay their soldiers in coins?
My point isn't really asking why the Romans paid cash, but why medieval rulers didn't.
Well, first we need to make sure we're all talking about the same thing. I've been talking about post-Roman, pre-Crusades Europe. Maybe pre-pre-Crusades as the end point. Dunno what year to offer.Indeed. My point isn't really asking why the Romans paid cash, but why medieval rulers didn't. Even a soldier raised and mobilised only for a specific campaign is going to want some money.
On a side note, about shields: I'm often amazed how few people think the shields could be used in a ofensive manner, to strike at the opponent's face or legs. Most people just see it as a moving wall, and think the center ball/spike/funy mace is just for decoration...
Anyway: Wow, have I let this thread go. I've just been forgetful and lazy, really. I'll post something for sure either this weekend or next week, since I'll be on winter holiday. I'm not really sure which period/type of armor to cover, though. I'll think of something, but any requests? Medieval plate? Mail? 16th- and 17th-century plate and cuirasses? Ballistic armor from WWII to the present? Armor from the 18th century to around 1900? Something involving helmets?
What about this one from Henry II of France?:You wanted something like this?
Spoiler :
The level of detail on the breastplate is amazing but I am not sure whether the helmet would provide only protection or also sight...
Yeah, with that armor on he was practically asking to get killed in a freak tournament accident.Henry II of France,
Too much detail. Looks like some sort of skin disease. It shows real bad taste IMO.
so much Old World bias in this thread
USA#1