The History of Swords

By: Jason Petrina



Swords have been an important part of warfare for a significant part of history, dating as far back as the Bronze Age. It is largely believed that the sword evolved from the dagger, providing the added benefit of a longer blade than earlier daggers. A variety of materials have been used to forge the production of swords; however, iron became quite popular around the 13th Century BC due to the fact that it was so widely available throughout much of the world. The one major disadvantage of iron swords were that they did not tend to be very durable; however, this was often deemed to be of inferior importance as the ready availability of iron made it easy to equip armies.

As time went on, blacksmiths conducted experiments to find ways to make Swords stronger. One such experiment revealed that adding carbon to the smelting process provided a stronger metal production. The new alloy would later become known as steel.

The production of swords continued to increase around the world, taking on characteristics from each individual culture. In some cultures, swords tended to be longer than others and contain very ornate designs in the welding. Both single edged as well as double edged swords were produced; with both types showing favor in certain cultures. Germanic cultures, in particular, were well known for their artwork that decorated swords; making them both a work of art as well as a weapon of warfare.

In the Middle Ages, the production of swords showed even more improvement; including lengthening the handle as well as the blade. This allowed for better hand coordination; including two-handed use. The longsword, as this type of sword came to be known, proved to be quite popular, as it provided the opportunity for better reach and thrusting.

Further developments in the thickness of armor forced blacksmiths to continue experimenting with the production of sword making. As it became increasingly difficult for certain types of sword to compete in battle, they eventually disappeared in favor of weapons that were better equipped to handle emerging technologies.

Swords remained popular for some activities; however. Throughout the 17th century and part of the 18th century, the rapier remained a popular weapon for dueling purposes; although this weapon would eventually give way to the climate of the times as dueling fell out of fashion. Before long, the use of swords on the battlefield disappeared almost entirely, and swords were relegated to the purpose of self-defense only.

Toward the end of the 18th century and the beginning of the 19th century, the sword became less important with the emergence of handguns; weapons that were more reliable and deadly.

Eventually, swords came to be associated with symbolic and ceremonial uses only.



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