Consider the following statements about cavalry warfare in India : 1

Consider the following statements about cavalry warfare in India :

1. The iron stirrup made it possible for the armoured warrior to sit firmly on a horse without falling off.
2. The iron stirrup also allowed a cavalry charge with lances held tightly to the body, without the rider being thrown off by the shock of impact.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

[amp_mcq option1=”1 only” option2=”2 only” option3=”Both 1 and 2″ option4=”Neither 1 nor 2″ correct=”option3″]

This question was previously asked in

UPSC CDS-2 – 2022

Both statements are correct regarding the impact of the iron stirrup on cavalry warfare. The introduction of the iron stirrup provided unprecedented stability to the rider, allowing them to sit firmly on the horse even during rapid movements or impacts. It enabled riders to use weapons like lances much more effectively, transferring the force of the blow through the rider’s legs braced in the stirrups, thus delivering a powerful impact without being dislodged.

– The stirrup fundamentally changed cavalry tactics, allowing for shock combat by enabling riders to withstand the impact of charges.
– Before the stirrup, cavalry primarily relied on javelins, bows, or swords used in skirmishing or slashing attacks, as delivering a powerful thrust with a lance was difficult without being unseated.

The development and spread of the stirrup is considered one of the most significant technological advancements in the history of warfare, particularly influencing the rise of heavy cavalry and feudal societies in medieval Europe and contributing to the success of various steppe empires. The exact origin of the stirrup is debated, but it is believed to have originated in Asia.

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