Swiss Pikemen

Swiss pikemen were skilled infantry soldiers from Switzerland, particularly prominent during the late Middle Ages and Renaissance. They wielded long spears called pikes, typically around 18 feet in length, allowing them to effectively engage cavalry and other infantry from a distance. Swiss pikemen were known for their exceptional discipline, training, and tactical formations, which made them formidable on the battlefield. Their effectiveness contributed to the military reputation of Switzerland, as they played a crucial role in various conflicts throughout Europe, especially noted during the Burgundian Wars and the Italian Wars. Their techniques influenced later military strategies.