The Evolution of Armor: From Animal Skins to Suits of Armor

Throughout the history of warfare, the evolution of armor has played a significant role in protecting soldiers on the battlefield. From the earliest days of warfare, humans sought ways to defend themselves from being cut or stabbed. This quest for protection led to the development of various types of armor, starting from simple animal skins and tough fibers to the more complex and effective metal plates and suits of armor.

Early Origins of Armor

The history of armor dates back to when warfare first started. Early humans looked for any advantage they could gain, such as using sticks and stones. As technology advanced, people discovered the use of metal and metallurgy, which led to the creation of armor. Consult your local library for more detailed information on this fascinating topic.

Simple Metal Armor in the Early Ages

Simple metal armor dates back to the Copper and Bronze Ages. These early metals were often worked into armor wherever they could be obtained. Iron, being a tougher metal, required more advanced techniques to work into large, effective pieces. In the early Iron Age, metal armor often still tended to be made of bronze due to its malleability and strength.

Types of Early Armor

Armor in the early Iron Age comprised various forms, including:

Mail (or Chain Mail): Mail was the most common form of armor in Europe. It consists of interlinked metal rings that form a flexible, protective layer. The Celts are often credited with the invention of mail, which was later adopted by the Romans. Mail was the dominant form of metal armor throughout much of the Middle Ages. Scale Armor: Scale armor was made from individual small metal plates that were sometimes overlapped and sewn to a leather or cloth backing, similar to the overlapping scales of a fish. This type of armor was designed to be lightweight and flexible while providing good protection. Lamellar Armor: Lamellar armor was composed of small metal plates laced together or lammelar into a fabric-like structure. This type of armor was often used in periods when mail was not as readily available. Segmented Armor (Lorica Segmentata): This armor was formed by overlapping iron bands, providing a segmented, flexible armor that was often used by Roman legions.

Adoption and Evolution of Armor

As metalworking technology advanced, armorsmiths were able to create larger and more precise iron or mild steel plates. Full suits of armor began to appear in the 1400s, indicating a shift towards more comprehensive protective gear. Mail remained the dominant form of metal armor well into the Middle Ages, but it eventually made way for heavier and more precise metal plates.

Non-Metal Armor Substitutes

While metal armor has been a common sight throughout history, it was often expensive. As a result, people looked for substitutes using various materials:

Linen Armor: Linen fibers can be quite tough when layered. Armor made from layered linen was common in some ancient societies. Medieval knights wore padded linen jackets called gambesons under their mail shirts to protect against blunt force. Gambesons were used by commoners who could not afford more expensive metal armor. Boiled Leather: Boiled leather was occasionally used to create protective armor. This process involved treating leather to make it more flexible and durable. Wood and Fiber Armor: All over the world, you can find examples of armor made from wood, knotted natural fibers, and other materials. Japanese samurai often equipped their foot soldiers with armor made from layers of lacquered paper, which provided both protection and mobility.

Conclusion

The evolution of armor reflects the continuous adaptations and advancements in technology and warfare. From simple animal skins to elaborate suits of armor, each type of armor served a specific purpose and provided unique levels of protection. Understanding the history and development of armor not only enhances our knowledge of past warfare but also offers valuable insights into the technological and cultural developments of different civilizations.