We all know that the Athenians and Macedonians travelled far and wide, establishing colonies and influence wherever they went. Not so well known is a major colony of the Spartans at Taras in what is now southern Italy. These people were basically outcasts from Spartan society, born at a time when most Spartan men were away at war for years at a time and their wives decided to bear children from other men. When the husbands returned, these offspring were shunned and refused the same rights as other Spartans, so left to form their own society. Based on Spartan ethics, it did have one major change. Spartans felt that riding horses was only for the weak and feeble. Real warriors marched on their feet. Yet the people of Taras came to realize that horses were just another tool for warfare and when used properly, could easily defeat men on foot. Hence, they became expert horsemen and breeders.

Initially these riders were used to expand the influence of Taras amongst the local tribes and other Greek enclaves in the area. Then they hired themselves out as mercenaries, fighting wherever the opportunity presented itself, in some cases for the very people who shunned them.

In this latest edition of Osprey's 'Warrior' series, author Nic Fields takes a look at these men starting with how they came to be were they were and where these men fit into their society. It looks at how the men were recruited, how they were trained, what they wore and what equipment they used. The Tarantine horsemen were particularly fond of the javelin and made excellent use of this during their raids and campaigns. We see how this came to be as well. The book also covers how these men fought on campaign and how they were used in battle. Much of what we know is thanks to contemporary writers who left a considerable amount of information about them.

Thanks to the superb illustrations of Sean O'Brogain that include some excellent maps and an outstanding array of surviving artifacts, we get a good look at these little known men and how they lived. It all makes for a fascinating read and whether you have interest in this period of history or not, you'll find this book well worth picking up.

January 2009

 For more on the complete line of Osprey books, visit www.ospreypublishing.com or contact them at Osprey Direct, PO Box 140, Wellingborough, Northants, NN8 2FA, UK. In the US, it is Osprey Direct at 44-02 23rd St, Suite 219, Long Island City, NY 11101., where you can get a catalogue of available books.

If you would like your product reviewed fairly and quickly, please contact me or see other details in the Note to Contributors.