ripstefano

[ripstefano]

The Ancient Greeks: Armies of Classical Greece, 5th and 4th Centuries BC

The ancient Greek hoplite armor was a formidable ensemble designed for protection and mobility in battle. At its core was the linothorax, a cuirass made of layers of linen or leather, often reinforced with bronze scales or plates, providing a balance between flexibility and defense. Hoplites wore a bronze korinthian helmet, characterized by its full-face coverage with slits for the eyes and mouth, adorned with a crest for intimidation. Greaves and additional bronze armor protected the legs and shins, while a large, round shield called an aspis or hoplon was essential for the phalanx formation, both as a defensive tool and a weapon. The hoplite carried a long spear (doru) and a short sword (xiphos) for close combat, making them highly effective heavy infantry. The combination of materials, craftsmanship, and design reflected the Greek emphasis on unity, discipline, and the martial prowess of their city-states.

From "The Ancient Greeks: Armies of Classical Greece, 5th and 4th Centuries BC"

[ripstefano]

The Roman Army from Caesar to Trajan

Roman legionary armor was a sophisticated and adaptable system designed for the effectiveness and endurance of the soldier in battle. The most iconic component was the lorica segmentata, a series of interlocking iron or steel strips that protected the torso while allowing mobility, reinforced with leather straps and buckles. Earlier armor styles included chainmail (lorica hamata) or scale armor (lorica squamata), offering flexibility and widespread use. The helmet (galea) featured a protective brow ridge, cheek guards, and a neck plate to shield vital areas without obstructing vision or movement. A rectangular shield (scutum), made of layered wood and covered in leather or canvas, provided both personal and group defense, particularly in formation tactics like the testudo. Complementing this, the legionary carried a short thrusting sword (gladius) and a throwing spear (pilum), emphasizing their role as disciplined and versatile heavy infantry in the Roman military machine.

From "The Roman Army from Caesar to Trajan"

[ripstefano]

The Samurai: Warriors of medieval Japan 940-1600

The Samurai of Japan, from the Heian through the Sengoku periods (940-1600), were elite warriors deeply intertwined with the cultural and military fabric of the nation, renowned for their martial skill, loyalty, and adherence to the code of bushido. Their armor evolved over the centuries to suit changing battlefield tactics and the increasing use of firearms. Early Samurai armor, such as the ō-yoroi, was crafted primarily for mounted archery, featuring a boxy design with large shoulder plates and thick silk cords binding lacquered iron or leather plates, offering flexibility and protection. As infantry combat and the use of swords and spears became more prevalent, the dō-maru and haramaki styles emerged, hugging the body more closely for greater mobility. The kabuto, or helmet, was a masterpiece of craftsmanship, often adorned with intricate crests and providing robust protection for the head and neck, complemented by a face mask (menpō) to shield the face and intimidate foes. Armed with a daishō, the paired katana and wakizashi symbolizing their status and soul, Samurai also wielded weapons like the yumi (longbow) and yari (spear), adapting their tactics to the demands of war. Beyond their martial prowess, Samurai culture was steeped in Zen Buddhism, poetry, calligraphy, and a profound sense of duty to their lords and clans, shaping them into both warriors and custodians of a sophisticated warrior ethos that defined Japanese history and identity.

From "The Samurai: Warriors of medieval Japan 940-1600"

[ripstefano]

The Samurai: Warriors of medieval Japan 940-1600

The Samurai of Japan, from the Heian through the Sengoku periods (940-1600), were elite warriors deeply intertwined with the cultural and military fabric of the nation, renowned for their martial skill, loyalty, and adherence to the code of bushido. Their armor evolved over the centuries to suit changing battlefield tactics and the increasing use of firearms. Early Samurai armor, such as the ō-yoroi, was crafted primarily for mounted archery, featuring a boxy design with large shoulder plates and thick silk cords binding lacquered iron or leather plates, offering flexibility and protection. As infantry combat and the use of swords and spears became more prevalent, the dō-maru and haramaki styles emerged, hugging the body more closely for greater mobility. The kabuto, or helmet, was a masterpiece of craftsmanship, often adorned with intricate crests and providing robust protection for the head and neck, complemented by a face mask (menpō) to shield the face and intimidate foes. Armed with a daishō, the paired katana and wakizashi symbolizing their status and soul, Samurai also wielded weapons like the yumi (longbow) and yari (spear), adapting their tactics to the demands of war. Beyond their martial prowess, Samurai culture was steeped in Zen Buddhism, poetry, calligraphy, and a profound sense of duty to their lords and clans, shaping them into both warriors and custodians of a sophisticated warrior ethos that defined Japanese history and identity.

From "The Samurai: Warriors of medieval Japan 940-1600"

[ripstefano]

The Roman Army from Caesar to Trajan

Roman legionary armor was a sophisticated and adaptable system designed for the effectiveness and endurance of the soldier in battle. The most iconic component was the lorica segmentata, a series of interlocking iron or steel strips that protected the torso while allowing mobility, reinforced with leather straps and buckles. Earlier armor styles included chainmail (lorica hamata) or scale armor (lorica squamata), offering flexibility and widespread use. The helmet (galea) featured a protective brow ridge, cheek guards, and a neck plate to shield vital areas without obstructing vision or movement. A rectangular shield (scutum), made of layered wood and covered in leather or canvas, provided both personal and group defense, particularly in formation tactics like the testudo. Complementing this, the legionary carried a short thrusting sword (gladius) and a throwing spear (pilum), emphasizing their role as disciplined and versatile heavy infantry in the Roman military machine.

From "The Roman Army from Caesar to Trajan"

[ripstefano]

The Ancient Greeks: Armies of Classical Greece, 5th and 4th Centuries BC

The ancient Greek hoplite armor was a formidable ensemble designed for protection and mobility in battle. At its core was the linothorax, a cuirass made of layers of linen or leather, often reinforced with bronze scales or plates, providing a balance between flexibility and defense. Hoplites wore a bronze korinthian helmet, characterized by its full-face coverage with slits for the eyes and mouth, adorned with a crest for intimidation. Greaves and additional bronze armor protected the legs and shins, while a large, round shield called an aspis or hoplon was essential for the phalanx formation, both as a defensive tool and a weapon. The hoplite carried a long spear (doru) and a short sword (xiphos) for close combat, making them highly effective heavy infantry. The combination of materials, craftsmanship, and design reflected the Greek emphasis on unity, discipline, and the martial prowess of their city-states.

From "The Ancient Greeks: Armies of Classical Greece, 5th and 4th Centuries BC"

[ripstefano]

Uniforms of the Russian Hussar regiments (1812-1816), A. M. Valkovich, Old Zeughaus, 1991.

*Lubny (1), Sumy (2), Grodno (3), Olviopol (4), Akhtyrka (5), Belarusian (6), Alexandria (7), Mariupol (8), Izyum (9), Elizavetgrad (10), Pavlograd (11), Irkutsk (12), Life Guards (13).*

Source: ‪@1547_1917 ‬on Twitter

[ripstefano]

Uniforms of the Russian Hussar regiments (1812-1816), A. M. Valkovich, Old Zeughaus, 1991.

*Lubny (1), Sumy (2), Grodno (3), Olviopol (4), Akhtyrka (5), Belarusian (6), Alexandria (7), Mariupol (8), Izyum (9), Elizavetgrad (10), Pavlograd (11), Irkutsk (12), Life Guards (13).*

Source: ‪@1547_1917 ‬on Twitter

[ripstefano]

The Portuguese Army of the Napoleonic Wars

During the Napoleonic Wars, the Portuguese Army transformed from a poorly organized and underfunded force into a disciplined and effective military under the guidance of British officers, particularly General William Beresford. Initially overwhelmed by French invasions, the army underwent extensive reorganization, adopting British training methods, tactics, and equipment. It consisted of well-trained infantry regiments, cavalry, artillery, and local militia, all of which played vital roles in resisting French occupation. Portuguese forces fought valiantly in key battles of the Peninsular War, such as Bussaco and Salamanca, often earning respect for their discipline and determination. Additionally, guerilla fighters disrupted French supply lines and communication, further undermining Napoleon’s campaigns in the Iberian Peninsula. By the war’s end, the Portuguese Army had solidified its reputation as a capable and essential component of the Allied victory.

From The Portuguese Army of the Napoleonic Wars

[ripstefano]

The Crusades

The Crusades, a series of religious and military campaigns primarily between the 11th and 13th centuries, can be viewed in a positive light for their impact on cultural exchange, technological progress, and the shaping of European identity. While often controversial, these campaigns had significant effects on both the Christian and Muslim worlds, fostering developments that shaped history.

From "The Crusades"

[ripstefano]

Same with Napoleon telling her not to bathe when he was visiting

very funny how people ask how did napoleon pull josephine but she was literally writing letters to charles saying she would rather kill herself than be with napoleon after marrying him

[ripstefano]

Portrait of an Officer of the Life-Guards hussars Regiment - Nikolai Egorovich Sverchkov

[ripstefano]

Fun fact, my great grandfather died fighting for the Whites in the Civil War.. okay, probably not that fun

From The Russian Army 1914-18

Early War Uniforms (1914-1915)

At the outbreak of the war, Russian Imperial Army uniforms were traditional and formal, inspired by 19th-century European military fashion. Key features included:

Infantry: Soldiers wore the gymnastiorka, a pullover-style tunic with a standing collar, often in olive green or khaki to blend with rural landscapes. Rank was indicated by colored collar tabs and shoulder boards.

Headgear: Soldiers wore the M1910 peaked cap, which had a leather visor and badge. Officers and guards regiments wore the iconic shapka, a tall fur hat, especially in colder climates.

Footwear: Soldiers wore sapogi (knee-high leather boots), which were sturdy but hard to maintain on the battlefield.

Cavalry and Specialized Units: The cavalry wore the traditional long blue or dark green overcoat with distinct colored cuffs and collar insignia. Cossack and other specialized units had specific, unique uniforms, often featuring traditional garments like the cherkesska (a type of coat) and decorative braid.

Mid-War Changes (1915-1916)

As the war progressed, Russia’s economy and industry struggled to keep up with demand, leading to simplifications in uniforms:

Tunic: The gymnastiorka became simpler, often without the colored collar tabs or decorative elements. Khaki shades became standard as brighter colors were deemed impractical.

Greatcoat: The heavy wool shinel (overcoat) remained a staple, especially during harsh winters, but there was a shortage of quality fabric, and lower-quality cloth began to appear.

Headgear: Caps were simplified, with many soldiers receiving the budenovka (a soft, pointed wool cap) by 1917. This cap became especially popular in winter regions but had limited protection.

Late-War Uniforms (1917-1918)

The Russian military was increasingly influenced by revolutionary sentiments, and practical, minimal designs became the norm:

Tunic and Coats: Uniforms were pared down further, with basic olive-drab tunics and greatcoats. Rank insignia were minimal and often overlooked as soldiers became more focused on function than formality.

Insignia: Some units began to remove the imperial insignia altogether due to the influence of the Bolsheviks. Instead, red armbands or patches occasionally appeared.

Boots: Soldiers frequently substituted traditional boots with puttees (long cloth wraps) due to the shortage of leather, a trend seen across European forces during this period

[ripstefano]

From The Russian Army 1914-18

Early War Uniforms (1914-1915)

At the outbreak of the war, Russian Imperial Army uniforms were traditional and formal, inspired by 19th-century European military fashion. Key features included:

Infantry: Soldiers wore the gymnastiorka, a pullover-style tunic with a standing collar, often in olive green or khaki to blend with rural landscapes. Rank was indicated by colored collar tabs and shoulder boards.

Headgear: Soldiers wore the M1910 peaked cap, which had a leather visor and badge. Officers and guards regiments wore the iconic shapka, a tall fur hat, especially in colder climates.

Footwear: Soldiers wore sapogi (knee-high leather boots), which were sturdy but hard to maintain on the battlefield.

Cavalry and Specialized Units: The cavalry wore the traditional long blue or dark green overcoat with distinct colored cuffs and collar insignia. Cossack and other specialized units had specific, unique uniforms, often featuring traditional garments like the cherkesska (a type of coat) and decorative braid.

Mid-War Changes (1915-1916)

As the war progressed, Russia’s economy and industry struggled to keep up with demand, leading to simplifications in uniforms:

Tunic: The gymnastiorka became simpler, often without the colored collar tabs or decorative elements. Khaki shades became standard as brighter colors were deemed impractical.

Greatcoat: The heavy wool shinel (overcoat) remained a staple, especially during harsh winters, but there was a shortage of quality fabric, and lower-quality cloth began to appear.

Headgear: Caps were simplified, with many soldiers receiving the budenovka (a soft, pointed wool cap) by 1917. This cap became especially popular in winter regions but had limited protection.

Late-War Uniforms (1917-1918)

The Russian military was increasingly influenced by revolutionary sentiments, and practical, minimal designs became the norm:

Tunic and Coats: Uniforms were pared down further, with basic olive-drab tunics and greatcoats. Rank insignia were minimal and often overlooked as soldiers became more focused on function than formality.

Insignia: Some units began to remove the imperial insignia altogether due to the influence of the Bolsheviks. Instead, red armbands or patches occasionally appeared.

Boots: Soldiers frequently substituted traditional boots with puttees (long cloth wraps) due to the shortage of leather, a trend seen across European forces during this period

[ripstefano]

Watercolors of Lazare Carnot and Prieur de la Côte d’Or I made last month for the delightful @aedesluminis 🙂‍↕️

(They were made as a gift, which explains why I had zero references for Prieur.. please do not throw me off a cliff)

The part of the faisceau de licteur was inspired by an existing Carnot stamp

[ripstefano]

Portrait of town major field-marshal lieutenant Ludwig Reitz-Brachelli (1854-1937) (1911)

Jacques Sternfeld (Austrian, 1874-1934)

[ripstefano]

The Canadian Army

Remembrance Day in Canada, observed on November 11, honors the men and women who served in the Canadian Armed Forces, particularly those who sacrificed their lives in war, conflict, and peacekeeping missions. This solemn day marks the armistice that ended World War I on November 11, 1918, and has grown to commemorate veterans of all wars, including World War II, the Korean War, and peacekeeping missions around the world.

At 11:00 a.m., Canadians observe a moment of silence to remember and reflect on the courage and sacrifices of military personnel. In many communities, ceremonies are held at cenotaphs and war memorials, where people lay wreaths and recite the poem "In Flanders Fields" by Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae, a Canadian soldier and poet. The red poppy, inspired by this poem, is a symbol of remembrance in Canada, worn by many people leading up to November 11.

The Royal Canadian Legion, a national organization of veterans, plays a significant role in organizing Remembrance Day events and the annual poppy campaign, with funds going to support veterans and their families.