During the Middle Ages, Europe and Asia were comprised of many different political divisions with different capabilities and customs. Armies differed in the tactics they used and the weapons they wielded. Some relied on calvary; others relied on infantry. Armored knights on horseback often brandished broad swords and lances. This was the era of the castle—many of which still stand across the continent—which led to the rise of siege warfare and powerful artillery. The detailed text is supplemented with primary sources, full-color photographs, battle maps, and breakout biographies.