Cavalry in Napoleonic Wars

During the Napoleonic Wars (1803-1815), cavalry played a crucial role as mounted troops who provided speed and mobility on the battlefield. Unlike infantry, cavalry could quickly charge enemy lines, harass supply routes, and pursue fleeing soldiers. They were divided into different types, such as heavy cavalry for shock combat and light cavalry for reconnaissance and skirmishing. Notable units included the French cuirassiers and hussars. Their impact was significant, influencing tactics, formations, and even the outcome of many battles, as cavalry often served as a decisive force in the rapidly changing dynamics of 19th-century warfare.