chevauchée

Chevauchée refers to a type of military raid, particularly used during the Middle Ages, where cavalry would swiftly invade enemy territory to cause destruction and instill fear. These raids involved looting, burning crops, and attacking key targets, aiming to weaken the enemy's resources and morale without engaging in direct battle. The term is most commonly associated with French knights during the Hundred Years' War, where such tactics were employed against English forces. Chevauchées were strategic maneuvers designed to disrupt the enemy and assert dominance over a region.