10-03-2009, 12:15 AM
Despite the lack of definitive supporting evidence, it's not far fetched to posit a continuity of mounted warrior tradition in both Britannia and Brittany (formerly Armorica). Both were evident as the Western Roman Empire folded its tents; both were evident as new societies emerged.
It's especially noteworthy in the case of insular horsemanship as some sources claim the early Saxons tended not to use horses, yet by the time of Alfred horses are an integral part of Wessex government and military. Not cavalry per se, the Saxons still moved and fought on foot. Paradoxically, the mounted warrior tradition was re-introduced to Britain in 1066. Among William of Normandy's forces were those of Alan of Brittany (a suggestive name given the role of the Alans in that same area as the Western Empire folded).
It's especially noteworthy in the case of insular horsemanship as some sources claim the early Saxons tended not to use horses, yet by the time of Alfred horses are an integral part of Wessex government and military. Not cavalry per se, the Saxons still moved and fought on foot. Paradoxically, the mounted warrior tradition was re-introduced to Britain in 1066. Among William of Normandy's forces were those of Alan of Brittany (a suggestive name given the role of the Alans in that same area as the Western Empire folded).
"Fugit irreparabile tempus" (Irrecoverable time glides away) Virgil
Ron Andrea
Ron Andrea
