Cavalry refers to soldiers who fight on horseback—or, in modern parlance, those who are part of highly mobile, often mechanized, military units.
Historically, the term originates from the French word “cavalerie,” which is itself derived from “cheval,” meaning “horse.” For centuries, cavalry played a decisive role on the battlefield, wielding mobility, speed, and the power of a sudden charge to overwhelm enemy lines. Light cavalry units specialized in reconnaissance and swift raids, while heavy cavalry often wore armor and excelled at full-force charges that could crack the opposing forces’ formations.
From an arms and equipment perspective, swords have been intricately linked with cavalry since ancient times. Many cavalry units favored curved swords, such as sabers, for their effectiveness in slashing attacks while on horseback. In Europe, the iconic cavalry saber evolved as a light and agile blade, perfect for swift strikes. Similarly, Middle Eastern and Asian mounted forces often brandished distinctive swords like the tulwar or the katana, each perfectly suited to their respective cavalry tactics.
Over time, advances in firearms gradually reduced the prominence of traditional horse-mounted cavalry. By the twentieth century, tanks, armored vehicles, and helicopters became known as modern “cavalry,” providing equivalent mobility and firepower.
