Cataphract

A cataphract was a heavily armored military cavalry soldier that originated in ancient Persia and was used by various civilizations, particularly during the Roman and Byzantine eras. These soldiers were typically mounted on horses and wore protective armor, which made them formidable on the battlefield. Cataphracts often engaged in shock warfare, charging at enemy forces to break their lines. Their investment in armor and training represented a significant military advancement for their time, contributing to the effectiveness of cavalry units in ancient warfare. They are sometimes viewed as precursors to modern armored cavalry.