History of the Sword

The evolution of the blade parallels humankind’s development of metallurgic technology. About 5000 years ago the Minoans developed metal-working technology, using primarily copper, gold and silver. The addition of tin to copper yielded a bronze alloy which was strong enough to make blades of reliable use.

By 4000 years ago, raiders of the Mediterranean, presumably from Russia, had developed double-edged weapons that could be used for cutting as well as stabbing. Because of the new stresses placed on blades used in this fashion, gradual advances were made in the shapes of the blade and tang to prevent the swords from essentially falling of their hilts during combat.

By about 2600 years ago the Assyrians controlled much of the middle-east, and their empire was founded on the ability to make blades of iron. European tribes at this time were also developing long iron swords, probably based on the Assyrian technology. By 2500 years ago, iron was used almost exclusively for edged weapons. The iron long sword ultimately proved to be too much even for the Roman Empire, and changed little from that time until the Middle Ages.

During the Middle Ages, swords became heavier and more ornamental. Because of the added weight of the sword, the quillon, or hand guard, was developed. This essentially prevented the hand from slipping off the handle and onto the blade itself. Through the Middle Ages, the quillon became more elaborate, sometimes forming a basket to protect the entire hand and making the sword nearly impossible to drop.

In the early Middle Ages, swords were the weapons of knights and nobility, to be used both from horseback and on foot. By the late Middle Ages and early Renaissance, military tactics dictated the formation of large armies. Swords began to be issued to foot soldiers of all ranks to be used as their primary weapons. At this time, the traditional role of the knight began to evolve into the horsed cavalry, and their swords were used almost exclusively from horseback. Broadswords began to evolve into the modern saber.

The saber continued to be a weapon of use in warfare until World War I. Since that period, the new technologies developed in the American Civil War have advanced considerably, and the sword is now used primarily for decorative and formal purposes rather than combat.

Somewhat less is knows about the evolution of edged weapons in Asia prior to the Renaissance era, but beautifully ornamental swords and daggers from Asian regions have been dated back to the 1300’s. These include the Indian talwar, bhuj and bagh nakh; the more modern Indian Khanda; the Indonesian kris and mandau; and of course the daisho, haikuchi, hamidashi, kwaiken and nagamaki of Japan. The most historic of the swords of Japan is the tachi, the first samurai sword.

Medieval swords : suits of armor, shields - helmets

This site showcases the medieval knight, renaissance period swords and suits of armor as well as some history on warriors.

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Starfire Swords Limited

Makers of reproduction medieval, renaissance, and other period and fantasy weapons. Offers daggers, swords, axes, and accessories. Online catalog and...

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A Squared Armory - Collector Medieval Weapons, Swords & Armor.

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Long Sword

... visit The Association for Renaissance Martial Arts (ARMA) to ... use until you buy one (wooden swords) . If your interested, e-mail ... Celtic History Jewelry Medieval History Nordic ...

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Christian Fletcher Medieval Armour

Historical reproduction armor, battle reenactment armor, costume armor, and swords; picture gallery, ordering information. Based in Nampa, Idaho.

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Swords and Medieval Collectibles

Offers a large variety of swords, daggers, shields, armor, and pewter gifts from the Medieval, Renaissance, Celtic, Oriental, and Roman era. Includes swords from movies or television ...

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By the Sword - Medieval Swords, Clothing, and Armour

Medieval and Renaissance items for your fun and enjoyment as well as re-enactment's and historical needs. Whether your interest lies in swords,...

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NetSword: Swords, Medieval Weapons & History Discussion

Discussion group for Medieval and Renaissance weapons of war as well as modern replicas of historical swords and other types of weapons. Additional forums on various aspects of the Middle ...

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Toledo Sword

Makes and sells rapier, samurai, medieval swords and more for novelty or renaissance fair displays.

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Medieval Weapon Training Manuals

Authoritative books and videos in Medieval Renaissance sword and knife fighting in stage combat.

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