Men-at-arms

Men-at-arms were heavily armored, professional soldiers serving in medieval and early modern armies, particularly in Western Europe. They were typically mounted knights or well-equipped infantry, providing a core fighting force. Their role involved close combat, shock tactics, and siege warfare. They were distinguished by their expensive equipment, rigorous training, and status, often being nobles, gentry, or highly skilled mercenaries. The term reflects their military prowess, serving a lord or king for pay, or through a feudal obligation, and were crucial to battles, sieges, and campaigns, providing significant military capabilities.

Men-at-arms meaning with examples

• During the Battle of Agincourt, the English longbowmen decimated the French men-at-arms, highlighting the vulnerability of heavily armored knights to ranged weaponry. The men-at-arms, expecting a swift victory, were bogged down in mud and overwhelmed, showing the advantage of tactical adaptability. Their defeat underscored the changing nature of warfare.
• Richard the Lionheart's men-at-arms formed the backbone of his crusading army, engaging in fierce close-quarters combat with Saladin's forces. Their skill and discipline were crucial in the capture of key cities like Acre. Despite losses, their training made them the most important factor of their success.
• Wealthy lords maintained retinues of men-at-arms, providing protection and asserting their authority. This gave power over their people and their ability to protect them. This small army helped to show their rank and give the ability to go to war with neighboring lords, if needed, to improve the lives of the people in their jurisdiction.
• In the Late Middle Ages, the rise of Swiss pikemen and English archers challenged the dominance of men-at-arms, leading to military innovation. The use of pikes and longbows proved devastating to cavalry charges, showing new ways for success that impacted battles. They were no longer the only solution.