Abteilung502: 65mm; Spanish Tercios Soldier

Description

The origin of the Spanish Tercios as such dates back to the reign of Charles I in 1534 and represents the culmination of a military renewal initiated some time before by the Catholic Monarchs under the command of the Great Captain. The Spanish Tercios were from their birth and for almost two centuries, the most lethal infantry in Europe. Their fearsome efficiency derived from an exceptional combination of firearms (arquebus and musket) with the pike and the sword, which was a true revolution in the military tactics used up to that time. There was no uniformity for the soldiers and each one was equipped according to his tastes and what he liked, and what their economy allowed them, normally following the fashions of the time. They incorporated handkerchiefs, ribbons or a colored sash to distinguish themselves from their enemies in battle.