Elite Warrior Units of The Ancient World
In the eyes of many people, the armed forces of many nations were often able to produce elite fighting units. However, the most elite warrior units of the ancient world were those who became legendary and even inspired the armed forces of the modern era.
Samurai
There’s still a little mystery surrounding the history of the samurai, such as the fact that women were among their ranks. However, as a fighting caste, they were the elite in Japan and were feared by many.
The Varangian Guard
Surprisingly, this force was comprised mainly of Vikings who served the Byzantine emperor, who valued their ferocity. It’s tough to think of Vikings serving anyone but their own people, but this was one of the deadliest forces in the world at the time.
Alexander’s Companion Calvary
For a while, the wedge formation that this shock unit employed was insanely effective. Not only that but coupled with Alexander the Great’s military tactics, they were a force that many enemies didn’t want to see coming.
The Persian Immortals
As the elite unit of the Persian Army, the Immortals earned their name thanks to the strict adherence to their numbers. There were typically 10,000 of them at all times. Their numbers were replenished if one or more died, earning their name.
The Sacred Band of Thebes
Not many people can claim a decisive victory over the Spartans, but this group managed to do so in 371 BC at the Battle of Leuctra. While much about them has been lost to history, it’s worth looking them up to see what they were all about.
