Episode Details
Back to Episodes
Are there any sources for the chariot driver actually exiting the chariot before contact?
Episode 376
Published 5 months, 3 weeks ago
Description
In this episode, Murray Dahm revisits Alexander's encounter with scythed chariots and unpacks some of the practical and tactical issues surrounding their historical use. From wargaming figure ratios to the use of caltrops, shield-banging, and even Roman caligae, we explore how ancient armies may have neutralised these fearsome weapons.
Were chariots best used against cavalry or lighter infantry? Did ancient troops rely on noise and tight formations—or did they use more direct countermeasures? And finally, a listener asks: is there any evidence that chariot drivers dismounted before impact—or is that a modern myth?
Join us on Patreon
patreon.com/ancientwarfarepodcast