Osprey Warrior 94 : Polish Winged Hussar 1576-1775

The Polish winged hussar was, to quote one of many foreign visitors impressed by them, 'without doubt one of the most spectacular soldiers in the world'. Most dramatic of all hussar characteristics were the 'wings' worn on the back or on the saddle. The hussar's main offensive weapon was a 4-5 metre lance (kopia). This book takes a close look at the origins and development of the Polish 'winged' hussars, and using many years' painstaking research drawn from unpublished Polish sources, provides a rounded view of the training, tactics, appearance and experiences of these legendary and fascinating warriors. Text by Richard Brzezinski with illustrations by Velimir Vuksic.

Contents

• Introduction
• History and Origins
• Chronology
• Recruitment & Organisation
• Equipment
• Wings
• Horses & Saddlery
• Campaign & Camp Life
• Experience of Battle
• Conclusion
• Glossary
• Museums
• Collecting
• Re-enactment
• Colour Plate Commentary
• Index