Warhorse: Cavalry in the Ancient World

Cavalry were an important part of almost every ancient army, yet modern writers have neglected them in favour of the infantry of the Greek phalanx and the Roman legions. Warhorse seeks to correct this injustice.

Phil Sidnell challenges the common view that ancient cavalry were useful for scouting and raiding but left the real fighting to the foot soldiers. In fact, he argues, they were often used in a shock role and proved decisive on many occasions. The famous victories of great generals such as Alexander, Hannibal and Julius Caesar could not have been won without a full appreciation of the battle-winning potential of the cavalry.

Drawing heavily on the ancient sources, Warhorse takes the reader on a thrilling ride through numerous vividly recreated battles, from the earliest civilizations to the Battle of Hastings, to reveal the horsemen of the ancient world in their full and deadly glory.

'A wonderful book ... written in a very clear and quick-paced writing style. It should become a classic.'

PETER G. TSOURAS, US defence intelligence analyst and author and editor of many books, including Alexander: The Invincible King of Macedonia.

'Sidnell has produced a highly readable study of the combat role of cavalry in the ancient world ... argues his point in an imaginative thorough fashion ... this book will appeal to a wide range of readers.'

CHOICE, June 2007

Philip Sidnell studied War Studies and History at King’s College London where he gained a First Class degree and twice won the Simon Russell O’Dwyer prize for academic achievement. Previously editor of the Military and Aviation Book Society and the Ancient and Medieval History Book Club, he is now a commissioning editor specialising in ancient warfare. Besides a lifelong interest in horses and military history, he is a keen wargamer. He lives in Kent with his wife and two children.