How strong is a phalanx?

The phalanx was an extremely strong form of heavy infantry, mainly used by the ancient Greek city states. Basically, it involved between 500 to a 1000 men in a tight formation, using their spears, all facing in one direction.

How deep is a Spartan phalanx?

Phalanx front and depth Hoplite phalanxes usually deployed in ranks of eight men or more deep; the Macedonian phalanxes were usually 16 men deep, sometimes reported to have been arrayed 32 men deep.

How did the Spartans use the phalanx?

The phalanx was the primary infantry battle formation in classical Greece. The Spartans achieved a level of mastery of the phalanx and its associated tactics which for two centuries was unparalleled by contemporary powers. This mastery was achieved through years of drilling, hard physical training and the development of the necessary mental grit.

When did the phalanx begin and end?

The age of the Phalanx may be traced back to Sumeria in the 25th century BCE, through Egypt, and finally appearing in Greek literature through Homer in the 8th century BCE (and, since, has been generally associated with Greek warfare strategy, the name itself being from the Greek for `finger’).

What was the phalanx used for in the Battle of Marathon?

One of the most notable uses of the phalanx was at the Battle of Marathon (490 BCE) where the Greek Hoplites advanced in formation `at a run’ (according to Herodotus) and decimated the lightly armed Persian infantry (a tactic later employed, in 480 BCE, at the decisive battle of Platea).

How effective was the phalanx in WW1?

The phalanx was designed and effective as a formation for forward attack or defence, but it was vulnerable to flanking and rear attacks. If the ranks and files became disordered or even collapsed, the phalanx tended to rapidly break down into a disorganized mass.