This is probably false to some extent because I get this perception mainly from movies and other media, but did soldiers in old wars line up in formations exposing themselves and take turns to fire? If so, why?
Edit: Ty for all the detailed responses guys! I had one more question- wouldn’t it make more sense for them to spread out or take cover while fighting?
In: 2518
Its not that they had turns, its that you spend a long time reloading and aren’t intentionally trying to synchronize your firing with the opponent.
The formations are for a few reasons. One is command control. Large groups of soldiers would be hard to control without formations in pre modern times. Some of it is for protection from cavalry. If cavalry gets going in among your men, your in for a bad day. Third is for volume of fire. Putting more bullets on the enemy group, trying to break them down quickly.
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