Winged Hussar

The Winged Hussar was the main type of cavalry used in the Polish army. The Hussars were adopted in the 16th Century and acted as light cavalry who carried the war-banners. The riders later took on the role of heavy infantry men who sported specialized armor and lances. Their main primary tactic was to lead the charge and crush standard foot soldiers. They continued to crash into the enemy formation until it broke. The exact reason why the Winged Hussars attached wings to their backs is unknown. Many believed that the wings were designed to increase moral of fellow Polish soldier. The Winged Hussar was considered the elite and primary heavy cavalry used by the Polish until the 1770s.