answersLogoWhite

0

A phalanx was a type of Greek squad of soldiers. Each soldier carried a round shield and a spear. The phalanx was a square of soldiers. Phalanxes were extremely vulnerable from attack on the flanks and rear. They were used mostly to break the front of an army. Since each soldier carried roughly fifty extra pounds of weight in armor and weapons, the phalanx moved slowly. They could also not pursue enemy troops if they decided to flee. They walked towards the enemy soldiers and just before impact starting running, giving some momentum to their charge. If a soldier in the front line fell, ones in the back pressed forward and took their place. It was advantageous for a phalanx to attack from high ground, which lent more momentum to a charge. Soldiers were called Hoplite.

User Avatar

Wiki User

14y ago

Still curious? Ask our experts.

Chat with our AI personalities

BlakeBlake
As your older brother, I've been where you are—maybe not exactly, but close enough.
Chat with Blake
MaxineMaxine
I respect you enough to keep it real.
Chat with Maxine
ReneRene
Change my mind. I dare you.
Chat with Rene

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: How did a phalanx work?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp