Varangian Guard: 12 Things You Should Know
Introduction Exotic, ferocious, and heavily armored – this, in a nutshell, defined the eminent presence of the Varangian Guard (Greek: Τάγμα των Βαράγγων, Tágma tōn…
Military
Battle of Thermopylae: 10 Misconceptions You Should Know
Popular culture has been kind to the historical episode of the Battle of Thermopylae, but with romanticized anecdotes intertwined between the actual events that took…
Spartans: The Fascinating Warrior Society of Ancient Greece
Introduction The subject of Spartans has been much discussed and showcased in the realm of popular culture. And while some of them have a historical…
Scythians: The Ancient Horselords of the Eurasian Steppe
Introduction When it comes to the popular history of nomadic groups, tribes (and super-tribes) like Huns and Mongols have had their fair share of coverage in various mediums, ranging…
Winged Hussars: The Mighty Shock Cavalry of the Commonwealth
Introduction The Polish Winged Hussars epitomized the shock cavalry arm of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth between the 16th and 18th centuries. Showcasing their stylized yet heavily…
Janissaries: The Remarkable Origins and Military System Of The Elite Soldiers
Introduction The controversial rise, the enviable peak, and finally the ignominious fall – this, in a nutshell, defines the historical spectrum of the elite Janissaries…
Potsdam Giants: The Exclusive Regiment Of Tall Men
We talked about the ancient Egyptian pharaoh Sa-Nakt who is possibly the world’s oldest known human to display patterns of gigantism (or giantism). As it…
Knights Templar: The Fascinating Origins, History, And Military
Introduction Knights Templar (or simply Templars), mysteries, and warfare – these three avenues had an obscure connection when it came to the mercurial times of the…
Know Your Ancient Greek Helmets: From Attic to Phrygian
Introduction The ancient Greek helmet is a familiar motif when it comes to popular cultural depictions of Greek history and mythology. However, quite unsurprisingly, many…
Powerful Warships Of History: From 7th Century BC – 17th Century AD
Introduction – Difference between Galleys and Frigates When it comes to history, maritime pursuits had undoubtedly enhanced the ‘reach’ of humankind, from the perspective of…
