Medieval Catapults Research Paper

1067 Words3 Pages

Daniel Mattos 11/12/15 PD 5

A catapult is a ballistic device that is uses to throw projectiles over a great distance. Although the catapult has been used since ancient times, it has proven to be one of the most effective mechanisms during warfare. The word 'catapult' comes from the Latin 'catapulta'. Castles and fortified walled cities were common during this period – and catapults were used as a key siege weapon against them. As well as attempting to breach the walls, flammable missiles could be thrown inside—or early biological warfare attempted with diseased carcasses or rotten garbage catapulted over the walls. The Medieval Catapults history dates back to ancient times. Various types of Medieval Catapults were used by the Chinese, Greeks and Romans. The Medieval Catapults reached Europe during the …show more content…

Medieval Catapults history notes that the weapons were introduced to England in 1216 during the Siege of Dover - as were many other types of siege weapons. Louis the Dauphin of France crossed the Channel with a large force and laid siege to Dover Castle making a violent and incessant attack on the castle walls. He used the Medieval Catapults against the walls and men of Dover Castle. The constable of Dover castle was Hugh de Burgh - he refused to surrender. The Medieval Medieval Catapults used during the Medieval times of the Middle Ages were the Mangonel, the ballista and the mighty trebuchet. The Mangonel complimented the other available siege weapons. The Mangonel was not as accurate as the Ballista but it was able to throw missiles further than a Trebuchet. Missiles were thrown in an overhead arc as opposed to

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