Armour

Xixia Chainmail Armor (41985701161)

Paris bordone 016

Πανοπλία των Δέντρων 8005

China Shanxi Ming dynasty - Buddhist deity GuanGong or Guan Yu - wood IMG 9575 Museum of Asian Civilisation

Child armour of Žygimantas Augustas, exhibited in the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania in Vilnius

Armour (or armor in American English) refers to protective clothing intended to defend its wearer from intentional harm in military combat and individual engagements. Historically, armour has been made from a variety of materials including metal, leather, padded cloth, and, in modern times, synthetic fibers and ceramics. The evolution of armour has been driven by the advancements in weaponry and the need for protection against them.

History

The history of armour can be traced back to antiquity, with the earliest examples being the linen corslets worn by the Sumerian soldiers around 3000 BC. As warfare evolved, so did armour, with the development of bronze and iron armour in the Bronze and Iron Ages, respectively. The Middle Ages saw the pinnacle of metal armour in the form of the knight's plate armour, which offered comprehensive protection. However, the advent of gunpowder and firearms in the Renaissance period led to a gradual decline in the use of traditional armour.

Types

Armour can be classified into several types, including:

• Personal Armour: Designed to be worn by individuals, personal armour includes helmets, breastplates, and greaves. It can be further divided into plate armour, chain mail, and leather armour, among others.
• Vehicle Armour: Used to protect military vehicles and warships, this type of armour includes reinforced steel and composite materials.
• Fortification Armour: This includes protective enhancements made to military fortifications, such as bunkers and castles, using materials like stone, concrete, and metal.

Materials

Over the centuries, the materials used for armour have evolved significantly:

• Metals: Historically, iron, bronze, and steel were commonly used for making armour due to their durability and protective qualities.
• Leather and Fabrics: Leather armour was used for its flexibility and lighter weight, while padded cloth armour offered protection against blunt force.
• Synthetics: Modern armour often utilizes synthetic materials like Kevlar and ceramics, which provide protection against bullets and shrapnel.

Modern Armour

In the contemporary world, armour technology has advanced to include body armor capable of stopping bullets, such as the bulletproof vest, and armour for vehicles that incorporates reactive and active protection systems. Modern soldiers are equipped with personal armour that balances protection, mobility, and comfort, reflecting the ongoing evolution of warfare and weaponry.

Cultural Significance

Armour has also held a significant place in various cultures, symbolizing strength, valor, and the martial prowess of the wearer. It has been featured prominently in literature, art, and cinema, often as a representation of the heroic ideal.

See Also

• Weaponry
• Military history
• Chivalry