This age witnesses fundamental change. The feudal system of the High Middle Ages crumbled everywhere in Europe due to climatic change, economic crisis and population decline. This triggered a fiscalization of the military organization, the establishment of taxes and representation of the estates. This book argues that these changes are the most fundamental ones in the military and political organization in Europe until the rise of the constitutional state around 1800 and so comes closer to the original concept of a Military Revolution. It also takes a critical look at other often discussed developments of this age, like the Infantry and Artillery Revolution or the decline of cavalry. Combining a chronological and regional narrative with deeper analysis of themes like chivalry, strategy, economic warfare or military publications makes this book an indispensable read for everyone interested in late medieval history.
Table of Contents
Introduction
1. Medieval Warfare 1000-1300
2. War in Europe 1300-1400
3. War in Europe 1400-1450
4. War in Europe 1450-1490
5. Naval Warfare
6. Guns and Pikesquares: revolutions of medieval warfare?
7. A Revolution of Knowledge
8. From the feudal levy system to mercenary armies: A Social-Military Revolution
9. Military change and the development of the early modern state
Conclusions