(^3) SWORD
Swords are weapons for close combat (hand-to-hand fighting). They have
a point for stabbing, and one or two sharp edges for slashing. A crossguard
above the hilt (handle) prevents the user’s hand from sliding down onto the
blade, and protects it from an enemy’s sword.
(^4) UNIFORM
In the confusion of battle, soldiers need to be able to tell friend from foe.
Uniforms mark out which side a soldier belongs to and encourage discipline –
soldiers wearing identical uniforms are more likely to act together as a group.
(^5) FIREARMS
Invented in China in the 14th century, firearms (portable guns) increased a
soldier’s ability to kill his enemy from a distance. These weapons ended the
age of the knight, whose expensive armour could offer little protection.
(^6) CAMOUFLAGE
In the 20th century, brightly coloured uniforms were replaced by clothes
that helped soldiers blend in with their surroundings. Colours and patterns
like the green and black stripes on this uniform are known as camouflage,
from the French camoufler (to disguise).
French infantryman In the Napoleonic wars (1803–15),
soldiers marched in ranks to the beat of a drum.
At a signal, one line all fired their muskets.
US paratrooper In World War II, some soldiers attacked
the enemy from the air. They leaped from aeroplanes
wearing parachutes, landing behind enemy lines.
The shako
(hat) gave
little protection,
but made the
soldier look taller
Sewing kit for
repairing uniform
Musket
able to
fire just
three
times per
minute
Short
sword was
of limited
use in battle,
but useful
for chopping
wood in
camp
Bayonet
(knife that
attaches to
the end of
a gun)
Shoes had
metal studs
to make
them
sturdier
G
re
na
de
Lifejacket inflated
when paratrooper
landed in water
Belt to hold extra
ammunition clips
Bayonet
Ammunition clips
for reloading rifle
Ammunition
pouch with
fitting for
carrying
bayonet
Protective gloves
Rifle fired eight
shots before needing
to be reloaded
4
5
6
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Helmet
240_241_War.indd 241 10/01/19 2:26 PM
elle
(Elle)
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