Medieval Poland had a remarkably varied and colorful history, one that placed it prominently in the spotlight as having one of the finest armies of the time. Of course, when one talks of armies from this period, these were quite different from armies of today. They were based on a small cadre of experienced warriors and then bolstered either by the peasants of the area or by mercenaries or both.

One thing for sure, these soldiers were among some of the more flamboyantly dressed of the period and in as much as anything else, has drawn the interest of historians and enthusiasts to this time.

This particular book covers the period of the start of the Christian kingdom and through the Northern Crusades, the wars against the Teutonic Knights and finally their confrontation with the Ottoman Empire. As is the norm with these books, the authors provide a background to these armies, including a historical perspective of the events of the time. Then there are sections involving the organization of these armies the take into consideration the infantry as well as the cavalry and armed horsemen. As you might imagine, the weapons of war changed during this 500 year period, though not as quickly as it has in today's world. The advances in weaponry as well as changes in their usage are full covered.

Relying on archival materials that include paintings, drawings and relics of the period to help tell the story, the book also has the superb illustrations of G. Embleton to show us how things may have easily looked. In all, Sarnecki and Nicolle's volume on this important part of history is not only the first done in English, but is a fascinating look into the events of the time. A book you'll be sure to find fascinating.

May 2008

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