How to Raise a Medieval Army DOCUMENTARY

Summary by Krater

This video examines how medieval armies were raised and organized in Western Europe, breaking down the typical composition, the decision-making process for going to war, and the phases of calling and mustering troops.

From the video

Answers: How were medieval armies raised and organized?

• medieval warfare
• raising a medieval army
• call to arms in the Middle Ages
• mustering medieval troops
• aristocratic retinue
• freemen in medieval armies
• auxiliaries in medieval warfare
• logistics of medieval warfare
• medieval military history

What it concludes

• Typical medieval armies usually numbered in the low thousands or even hundreds, in stark contrast to the massive forces of antiquity.
• Defensive wars in the medieval period were relatively simple, with light logistical and financial burdens and powerful community motivation.
• Offensive wars in foreign territory required much greater logistical and financial preparation, often leading to severe financial strain on the crown.
• Medieval states did not maintain large, purpose-built navies, forcing them to impress merchant ships or pay significant expenses to hire ships.
• The logistical requirements of medieval armies were enormous, encompassing troops, support personnel, camp followers, pack animals, and livestock.