América
Astronomical Knowledge of the Mayans: Predictions, Calculations, and Meanings
Systematic Sky ObservationThe Mayan civilization, which flourished from approximately 2000 BCE to the 16th century, d...
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07 Oct 2024
5 min
Napoleon: Genius or Tyrant
Napoleon: Genius or Tyranny? History is full of characters who have left their mark, but few inspire as much fear as Napoleon Bonaparte. Amidst the shadows of history, this man stands as an enigma, a monster of ambition who aroused admiration and terror in equal measure. Was he a visionary leader with an intellect that inspired his troops to follow him to the ends of Europe? Or was he an unscrupulous despot who did not hesitate to plunge the continent into a nightmare of war and destruction? Join us on this journey through the life of a man who, like in the best horror stories, aroused fear wherever he went. Check out this cool Napoleon pistol! The rise of a fearsome genius Napoleon was not always the spectre that menaced Europe. His beginnings were humble, a young officer who rose to prominence in the French Revolution. But, as if he had made a pact with dark forces, his rise was dizzying. Before long, he crowned himself Emperor of France , a title he carried with an aura of mystery and power that unsettled his contemporaries. His military genius was unquestionable. No one could predict his moves on the battlefield, like a lurking predator . In battles like Austerlitz, it seemed that the very shadow of death accompanied him, leading his enemies to their inevitable doom . Every strategy he devised was a new blow of terror to the kingdoms facing his relentless advance. Check out this top quality Napoleon Sabre! A leader who aroused fear But Napoleon's genius was not limited to the battlefield. As a leader, he knew how to inspire respect and fear in his subordinates. His cold, calculating gaze could make even the bravest tremble. Some said there was something supernatural about the way he imposed his will, as if his presence were that of a being who did not entirely belong to this world. His control over his empire was absolute, and those who dared to defy him faced a dire fate . His ever-vigilant spy network was a constant shadow hanging over anyone who showed signs of disloyalty. In his empire, the slightest murmur against the Emperor could result in a mysterious disappearance . Under his rule, the freedom promised by the French Revolution was transformed into a suffocating oppression , making even the most faithful followers shudder at the thought of what the future held. The tyranny that sowed chaos But as Napoleon's power grew, so did his darker side . He was not content to be the ruler of France; he wanted to be the master of Europe, the lord of a continent that trembled under his shadow . To achieve this, he carried out a series of wars that became an endless nightmare for the people who suffered them. The Napoleonic Wars were like a dark tide that swept across Europe, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Millions of men were drawn into the war, as nations bled to death in a conflict that seemed to have no end. In each battle, French soldiers and their enemies lived in the constant horror of facing the Emperor's army, which advanced with the force of a destructive gale . And as Napoleon built his empire, the people of Europe lived in fear of being devoured by his ambition . Every victory Napoleon delivered was a blow to the heart of Europe , a reminder that no one was safe from his desire for conquest. To many, Napoleon was a demon of war , a figure who embodied the chaos and death that loomed over the continent. This cannon from the Napoleonic era is very cool! The end of the nightmare But, as in every horror story, Napoleon's power could not last forever. Following his defeat in Russia, where his army was lost in a frozen hell from which few returned, his influence began to fade. Nations that once trembled before him found the strength to rise. Finally, he was defeated at the Battle of Waterloo , a moment many described as the end of a curse that had plunged Europe into darkness. Exiled to the remote island of Saint Helena , Napoleon spent his final days in a place that seemed as ghostly as his own legend. Isolated from the world, his figure became a spectre of what he once was, a man caught between the greatness of his past and the nightmare of his defeat . In his final days, his mind is said to have been populated by the ghosts of lost battles and the cries of fallen soldiers that haunted him endlessly. Genius or tyrant: the legacy of a man who still inspires fear Today, more than two centuries after his death, Napoleon remains a figure of concern . To some, he was a military genius , a man who transformed Europe with his vision and determination. But to many others, he was a ruthless tyrant , a man whose ambition turned Europe into a stage of horror and endless war.
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02 Sep 2024
3 min
Where are the Vikings from?
Where did the Vikings come from? Throughout history, the Vikings have captured the imagination of many with their daring expeditions, raids, and fascinating culture. However, there is often confusion surrounding the terms “Viking,” “Norse,” and “Germanic.” Although they are related, they are not synonymous. In this article, we will unravel where the Vikings came from and clarify the difference between these terms. Check out our Vikings collection, you'll love it! The origin of the Vikings The Vikings were explorers, traders and warriors who emerged in northern Europe during the Middle Ages, approximately between the 8th and 11th centuries. They came mainly from the regions we now know as Scandinavia, that is, from the current countries of Norway, Sweden and Denmark. The term " Viking " does not refer to an ethnic group or a nationality, but rather to an activity or way of life. In reality, "Viking" was a term used to describe those who engaged in exploration and plundering expeditions along the European coasts. In fact, the word "viking" comes from the Old Norse víkingr , which refers to a pirate or raider. Check out our collection of Viking Axes! What does it mean to be Nordic? The term "Norse" is broader and refers to people who lived (or whose ancestry is from) in the region of Scandinavia during the Viking Age. The Norse were inhabitants of Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Iceland, and their culture, mythology and language shared a common root, which gave them a collective identity. Unlike "Vikings", not all Norsemen were explorers or warriors. In fact, most Norsemen were farmers, fishermen, and craftsmen who lived relatively peaceful lives within their communities. So while all Vikings were Norsemen, not all Norsemen were Vikings. You'll love these helmets! The Germanic peoples: an older root The Germanic peoples, on the other hand, are an older and more diverse ethnic group that encompasses many tribes that inhabited much of northern and central Europe before the Viking Age. This group includes the ancestors of the Scandinavians, but also other peoples such as the Goths, Franks, Saxons and Angles, who expanded and established kingdoms in other parts of Europe, not just in the north such as France, Italy or Spain. The terms "Germanic" and "Nordic" are often confused because the Norse are descendants of ancient Germanic peoples who migrated to Scandinavia. However, not all Germanic peoples developed Norse culture, which is specific to the Scandinavian regions. Thus, when we talk about the Vikings, we are specifically referring to those daring individuals who ventured into unknown seas in search of lands and treasures, but always with the certainty that they belonged to the Nordic world of that time.
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27 Aug 2024
5 min
Who are the most famous Vikings in history?
Famous Vikings in History: The Real Warriors Who Left Their Mark The Vikings, often shrouded in myths and legends, were real figures who left an indelible mark on European history during the Viking Age (roughly between the 8th and 11th centuries). Some of these warriors, kings, and explorers became legendary figures, not only for their combat feats but also for their political and cultural influence. In this blog, we will explore the lives of some of the most famous Vikings who ever existed, those who truly walked the earth and whose stories have been confirmed by historical sources. This Viking horn is cool! Ragnar Lodbrok: The Legendary Viking King Ragnar Lodbrok is one of the most well-known names in Viking history, though his life is surrounded by an aura of myth and reality. According to Norse sagas, Ragnar was a Viking king and warrior who led raids in England and France. He was said to be a descendant of Odin, the chief god in Norse mythology, which gave him an almost divine status among his people. Stories about Ragnar include incredible feats, such as the capture of Paris in 845 AD, where he is said to have forced the Franks to pay a large tribute to avoid the city's destruction. However, his end was tragic; according to legend, he was captured by King Ælla of Northumbria and thrown into a snake pit, where he died. It is important to note that the figure of Ragnar Lodbrok is a composite of several historical Viking leaders and that the sagas narrating his adventures were written centuries after his supposed existence, making it difficult to separate myth from reality. I recommend this Viking sword! Ivar the Boneless: Ragnar's Ruthless Son Ivar the Boneless, one of Ragnar Lodbrok's sons, is another Viking who left an indelible mark on history. Ivar is known for being one of the leaders of the Great Heathen Army, a coalition of Viking warriors who invaded England in the 9th century. Ivar, whose nickname "Boneless" has been interpreted in various ways (from a reference to a possible illness to a metaphor for his cruelty), was known for his military intelligence and his relentless thirst for revenge. According to the sagas, it was he who led the invasion of Northumbria and captured King Ælla, executing him brutally in revenge for his father's death. Historically, Ivar is a documented figure, and his leadership in the invasion of England is a fact recorded by contemporary chroniclers. His legacy is that of a fierce and feared leader, whose campaign forever changed the course of English history. Harald Hardrada: The Last Great Viking King Harald Hardrada, also known as Harald III of Norway, is often considered the last great Viking king. Born in 1015, Harald spent much of his youth in exile, fighting as a mercenary in the Byzantine Empire. His nickname, "Hardrada," means "The Ruthless," a name he earned for his bravery and toughness on the battlefield. In 1046, Harald returned to Norway and claimed the throne, becoming king. Under his command, Norway consolidated into a strong and unified kingdom. However, his ambition did not stop there. In 1066, Harald launched an invasion of England, believing he had a right to the English throne. This campaign culminated in the Battle of Stamford Bridge, where Harald was defeated and killed by the forces of Harold Godwinson, the Anglo-Saxon king. Harald's death symbolically marks the end of the Viking Age. Check out this Viking Seax! Leif Erikson: The Explorer of the New World Leif Erikson, son of Erik the Red (founder of the Viking colony in Greenland), is one of the most celebrated Vikings, known for probably being the first European to reach North America, almost 500 years before Christopher Columbus. According to the sagas, Leif sailed west from Greenland, guided by tales of lands beyond the ocean. He reached a region he called Vinland, which is believed to correspond to modern-day Newfoundland, Canada. Although the colony in Vinland did not last, Leif Erikson's journey is one of the most outstanding achievements of the Vikings and a testament to their skill as navigators and explorers. Leif Erikson is celebrated today as a pioneer in the exploration of the New World, and his legacy endures as one of the most important Vikings in history. Check out our Vikings collection! Rollo: The Founder of Normandy Rollo, also known as Hrolf Ganger, was a Viking chieftain who, after a series of raids in what is now France, settled in the region of Normandy in the early 10th century. In 911, King Charles the Simple of France granted him lands in exchange for his loyalty and protection against other Viking invaders. Rollo became the first Duke of Normandy, and his descendants, the Normans, played a crucial role in European history, including the conquest of England in 1066 by William the Conqueror, Rollo's great-grandson. His legacy is immense, as he established a dynasty that would significantly influence European history. The Vikings were not only raiders and warriors; they were also leaders, explorers, and influential figures in European history. The characters we have explored in this blog are examples of how Vikings shaped the medieval world through their actions and legacies. Learning about these famous Vikings allows us to better understand the complexity of their society and the depth of their impact on history. Continue exploring our blog at Swords and More to discover more about the fascinating history of Vikings and other legendary warriors who left their mark on the world.
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23 Aug 2024
4 min
How the Vikings Dressed
How the Vikings Dressed: A Look at the Fashion of the Warriors of the North Vikings, those legendary warriors and explorers from Northern Europe, are not only known for their exploits in combat and extensive travel, but also for their distinctive style of dress. Far from the popular image of them with horned helmets and rough furs, historical Vikings dressed in a much more complex and functional manner. In this blog, we will explore what Viking clothing was really like and how it reflected their culture and environment. Check out our Vikings collection! Materials and Fabrics Used The Vikings lived between the 8th and 11th centuries, and their clothing was mainly influenced by the climate and resources available in Scandinavia. Wool was the most common fabric, as it was abundant and had excellent insulating properties, essential for surviving the harsh Nordic winters. In addition to wool, they also used linen, which was grown to a lesser extent, but was lighter and used for undergarments and for the warmer months. Skins and hides were also essential, although they were most commonly used for accessories such as shoes, belts and cloaks. The skins of animals such as sheep, goats and sometimes bears and wolves provided an extra layer of warmth and protection. Our Viking swords are really cool! Main Items of Viking Clothing Tunics and Shirts: Tunics were a staple of Viking dress, worn by both men and women. For men, these tunics were usually knee-length and worn over a linen shirt. Men's tunics usually had long sleeves and were belted at the waist. Women, on the other hand, wore long dresses that reached down to the ankles, often overlaid with aprons fastened by brooches at the shoulders. Trousers and Pantaloons: Men wore wool trousers, which could be tight or loose. Sometimes they were worn with pantaloons, a type of leggings that offered an extra layer of protection against the cold. Trousers were held up with straps or belts, and in some cases, leggings were worn to protect the legs. Cloaks and Coats: In cold climates, cloaks were essential. These garments, often made of thick wool or fur, were large enough to wrap around the entire body. Cloaks were fastened with a brooch or fibula at the shoulder, allowing freedom of movement. Vikings also wore long coats, especially while traveling or in extremely cold climates. Accessories: Belts were common and served not only to hold up clothing, but also to carry tools and weapons. Brooches and brooches were not only functional but also decorative, and were often made from metals such as bronze and silver. Jewelry, such as necklaces and bracelets, were also common and could be simple or ornate, depending on the social status of the wearer. Functional Viking Swords! We Got Them! Colors and Decorations Contrary to the belief that Vikings dressed in dull colors, they had access to a variety of natural dyes that allowed them to wear brightly colored clothing such as red, yellow, blue, and green. The dyes were extracted from local plants, bark, and minerals. However, these colors were not uniform and bright like modern colors; rather, they had a slightly faded or earthy appearance. In addition to colors, Vikings decorated their clothes with embroidery, piping and braiding, especially on the edges of tunics, cloaks and trousers. These decorations not only had aesthetic value, but could also show the skill of the craftsman and the social status of the wearer. This Ragnar axe is amazing! Viking Warriors Clothing For warriors, clothing had to be both practical and protective. Although full armour was not common, Viking warriors wore chain mail, iron helmets (without horns) and sometimes metal-reinforced wooden shields. Chain mail, known as "brynja", was a status symbol due to its cost and the time it took to make. Beneath the armor, warriors wore the typical wool tunic and sometimes additional padding to cushion shock. Warriors' footwear was also sturdy, made of tough leather and designed to withstand long walks and battle conditions. Viking clothing was a reflection of their environment, resources, and culture. It was functional, designed to withstand the harsh climate, but also displayed a sense of style and social hierarchy. Understanding how Vikings dressed allows us to better appreciate their way of life and demystify some of the popular images that have been perpetuated over the centuries. Interested in learning more about the Vikings and their fascinating culture? Keep exploring our blog at Swords and More, where we unravel the myths and realities of these legendary warriors from the north.
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27 May 2024
4 min
Excalibur. The legend behind the sword
Welcome to a new article from Swords and More. Today we will talk about Excalibur, the legendary sword of King Arthur, and the legend that accompanies this story. Excalibur. The legend behind the sword Excalibur, the sword that made Arthur Pendragon King of England when it was dug out from the rock in which it was embedded. As in many other legends, Excalibur is said to be wielded only by its true owner. Thus, when Arthur is dying due to wounds inflicted by his son Mordred at the Battle of Camlann, Excalibur must be returned to the Lady of the Lake, its original owner, as no one else can use it. Check out this version of the Excalibur Sword! In the 13th century, monks at the French abbey of Cluny spread a legend about a knight named Galgano, who was later canonized by Pope Urban III. This knight may be related to Sir Gawain or Galvan. The story includes iconic elements of the Arthurian cycle, such as the sword stuck in the stone, which first appeared in the 12th-13th century French poet Robert de Boron's play "Merlin." In the Italian region of Tuscany, there is the Rotonda di Montesiepi, where tradition holds that the sword stuck in a stone there is that of Saint Galgano. Check out this version of the Excalibur Sword In the famous work Le Morte d'Arthur by the 15th century English writer Thomas Malory, it is mentioned that the sword may have been pulled from a rock or an anvil. Malory also presents another version, recorded in the Post-Vulgate Cycle or Roman du Graal of the 13th century, in which Excalibur comes into Arthur's hands thanks to Nimue, the Lady of the Lake. The origin of the name Excalibur has several theories. One of the most accepted is that it comes from the Latin "Ex Calce Liberatus", which would translate as "Freed from the stone". However, some believe that the name could derive from the Welsh tale "Culhwch and Olwen", part of the "Mabinogion", a collection of prose stories from medieval Welsh manuscripts. In that tale, Arthur's sword is called Caledvwich, derived from the Latin "chalybs" (steel or iron) and meaning "strong cleavage". Some scholars suggest that Caledvwich could have its origin in the Irish mythological sword Caladbolg, meaning "ravenous" and which was wielded by King Fergus mac Roich in the Ulster Cycle , a collection of prose and verse writings of Irish mythology. This King Arthur's Dagger is incredible Another story from the Arthurian cycle mentions a sword embedded in a stone or a tree trunk, depending on the version. This story features Galahad, the bastard son of Lancelot and Elaine de Corbenic, conceived under a spell that made Lancelot believe he was Queen Guinevere, Arthur's wife. Galahad is brought to court and, unwittingly, sits at the Round Table in the place reserved for the knight who must find the Holy Grail, a dangerous mission that has cost many lives. It was the 13th-century French poet Robert de Boron who related the myth of Arthur to the search for the Holy Grail, the chalice from which Christ drank at the Last Supper, giving it a more Christian dimension. Excalibur was also noted for its magical powers. This tradition of magical weapons comes from the early Middle Ages, where there is mention of Dyrnwyn, the sword of Rhydderch Hael, a ruler of the British kingdom of Alt Clut, which burned if wielded by someone unworthy. Arthur possessed several weapons with special names and powers, such as the spear Rhongomyniad, which glowed until the end of the world; the dagger Carnwennan, which rendered its wielder invisible; and two swords: Clarent, mentioned in the English poem "The Death of Arthur," and Seure, which Arthur gave to Lancelot. Check out this King Arthur Helmet Excalibur's magical powers were manifested in Arthur's first battle, blinding his enemies with a glow like that of "thirty torches," as Malory describes in her work. Excalibur's scabbard also had magical properties, as it could heal. In Malory's account, the scabbard is stolen by Arthur's half-sister Morgana and thrown into a lake to avenge the death of her beloved Accolon of Gaul. This act was crucial, as without the healing scabbard, Arthur died at the Battle of Camlann. His body was taken to the island of Avalon, where Excalibur had been forged, and then returned to its original owner, the Lady of the Lake. And you, what do you think of King Arthur and his legendary sword Excalibur?
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21 May 2024
2 min
The true story of William Wallace
Welcome to a new article from Swords and More. Today we will tell you the true story of William Wallace! William Wallace William Wallace was born on 3 April 1270 in Elderslie, Renfrewshire, Scotland. He was a prominent Scottish soldier who led his country's resistance against the English occupation under the reign of Edward I of England during the First War of Scottish Independence. Check out this amazing William Wallace sword! Contemporary information about Wallace's life is scant, and much of what is known comes from the work of Blind Harry, written around 1470, almost two centuries after Wallace's birth. Wallace was the third son of Malcolm Wallace, a landowner with estates at Elderslie and Auchinbothie. His first known action was at Lanark, where he led an uprising, and he then moved to Ayrshire to join other Scottish nobles at Irvine who were also fighting the English. This version of the William Wallace Sword made of Toledo Steel is also a great choice! In 1296, Edward I of England intervened in Scottish affairs, sending troops to occupy the kingdom and appointing English officials to govern it. It was in this context that Wallace emerged as a leader of the resistance, taking the initiative to combat foreign rule. Look at this shield of William Wallace Wallace is remembered with admiration and respect for his bravery and military skill. He played a crucial role in the fight for Scottish independence during the 13th century, becoming a symbol of resistance and courage in the face of English oppression. Baldric William Wallace! Despite his efforts and achievements, Wallace was eventually captured and executed on 23 August 1305 at Smithfield, Middlesex, London, England. His death was tragic, but his legacy lives on, as he remains an iconic figure in Scottish history and popular culture. The story of his life and achievements continues to inspire generations of Scots and people around the world who value the fight for freedom and justice. And you, what do you think of William Wallace? Tell us!
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30 Apr 2024
3 min
Roman Weapons and Swords. Roma Aeterna
Welcome to a new Swords and More article! Today we will tell you about the glorious Rome and its weaponry. Roma Aeterna! Roman military world and weapons When we think of Roman military capability, one of the most important empires in history comes to mind. Some of the relevant elements of Roman tactics are: Discipline and structure: The Roman army was noted for its discipline and organization, as well as for its advances in weapons and tactics. Citizens between seventeen and sixty years of age were subject to military service. Those with minimum incomes of four hundred drachmas joined the infantry or heavy cavalry. Check out this amazing Roman Gladius! Composition of the army: An army was usually made up of four legions, although this number could vary. Each legion, in the 1st century BC, was made up of 5,120 men and was divided into 10 cohorts. Combat tactics: The Roman army was organized in tight formations, with a wide but shallow front line. These formations included 500 infantrymen in front, 1,200 light infantrymen on the sides, and 300 cavalrymen for support. This Gladius is of great quality! Now, if we go to weapons, the main Roman weapons are the following: The pilum was a long, heavy spear of about 2.5 metres that Roman soldiers threw like a dart towards the enemy. When several units threw their pilums at the same time, they created a shower of devastating projectiles. In addition, the pilum was also used in hand-to-hand combat, being a short spear very effective at piercing armour. The gladius hispaniensis , known as the Roman short sword, was instrumental in the expansion of the Roman Empire. With its suitable length, it allowed legionaries to attack with penetrating and devastating blows in confined spaces. Check out this spectacular Roman Centurion Gladius! The plumbata, also called the "spikes of Mars", was a new weapon adopted by the Roman armies around 300 AD. It consisted of an iron-tipped, lead-weighted dart mounted on a feathered wooden rod. The pugio, a dagger used by Roman soldiers, was an auxiliary weapon whose exact purpose is still uncertain, but it is believed to have had a meaning beyond combat, indicating the soldier's status. Look at this Roman dagger from Marto! Furthermore, the scorpion was a rotating siege engine used by the Roman army as a field artillery piece. And what do you think of Roman swords and the history of the glorious empire? (With permission from the great Spanish empire) Tell us!
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29 Apr 2024
3 min
The Celts. Hallstatt and La Tène. The Celtic Sw...
Welcome to a new article on Swords and More. Today we will tell you about a topic that we are sure will be of interest to you: The Celts and their swords! About the Celts We can understand the ancient Celts as a community of diverse tribal groups that spread and populated vast regions of central and western Europe during the Bronze Age, approximately from 700 BC to 400 AD. From the Iberian Peninsula to the lands of Germany, crossing all of Europe and even reaching areas of Anatolia in the east and Ireland in the west. The Celts, although never united under a single state banner, shared certain cultural, religious and linguistic ties (despite their many differences between tribes, there are common elements to take into account) although they did not form a complex and united civilization. We can talk about different cultures of the Bronze Age that have subsequently been related to the expansion of the so-called Celtic peoples such as Hallstat and La Tène. Check out this amazing Celtic Cormac Sword! Hallstatt culture The Hallstatt culture, an archaeological civilization that flourished in Europe during the late Bronze Age and early Iron Age. Its name evokes the mystique of the Hallstatt Necropolis in Austria, where some 2,000 tombs and more than 6,000 buried treasures lie. This culture, which inherited legacies from the Urnfields, was distinguished by its skill in salt production and its increasingly intense trade with neighboring peoples. As it grew, it established connections with regions as far away as the Mediterranean and the vast steppes of Eastern Europe. Over time, iron became the central axis of its development, thus marking the beginning of the First Iron Age. La Tene culture The La Tène culture dates back to the period between 450 and 50 BC, taking its name from the place where its first remains were discovered, on the shores of Lake Neuchâtel in Switzerland. This culture emerged as the successor to the previously predominant Hallstatt culture (ca. 1200 - 450 BC), and quickly became the dominant artistic force in Central Europe. The treasures of La Tène culture have been found across a wide geographical range, from the green lands of Ireland to the vast plains of Romania, painting a picture of cultural exchange and connectivity across Western and Central Europe. Check out this Cruachan Celtic Short Sword! The Celtic Swords The Celts were skilled in metal forging, a skill that left an indelible mark on Roman military technology. From Gallic helmets to the famous Celtiberian swords, their influence was undeniable. We can distinguish several Eras: Bronze Age: Forged in bronze, these swords were rather short, with a triangular shape that made them unique, adorned with complex Celtic spiral patterns. Iron Age (First Period): Celtic swords grew in size and weight during this period. In addition to long swords, short swords, horseshoe daggers and antennae swords were also used. Iron Age (Second and Third Period): Celtic swords continued to evolve, adapting to the changing needs of the battlefield, reflecting the constant transformation of their society and technology. I love this Historical Celtic Short Sword! And what do you think of the Celts and their swords? Are you passionate about the Bronze Age? Tell us!
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09 Apr 2024
3 min
Bugei Jūhappan. Martial discipline in Japan. Ni...
Welcome to a new article from Espadas Y Más. Today will be a very direct but also very informative post. We want to talk to you about Bugei Jūhappan, the traditional 18 martial disciplines of the Japanese arts. Check out this spectacular Yainohanzo katana! Bugei Jūhappan This selection of techniques was used by the samurai of the Tokugawa era in Japan. This concept was established by Hirayama Gyozo, and is based on previous Chinese concepts such as the 18 weapons of wushu. This Naginata is spectacular! In each Ryu-Ha the techniques and even disciplines may vary, at the discretion of each school, for this reason, the list may vary, but it is common to find the following disciplines in Bugei Jūhappan: - Kenjutsu (Swordsmanship) - Battojutsu (Unsheathed) - Sojutsu (Spear fighting) - Naginatajutsu (Fight with Naginata) - Kyujutsu (Archery) - Kyuba (Horse Archery) - Suijutsu , specifically To-suijutsu (Swimming) - Bōjutsu (stick fighting) - Nagamono (Polearm Fighting) - Torimono Dougu (Arrest Weapons) Weapons used by the Feudal Police of Japan to restrain or arrest someone without harming them. - Kakushi Buki Jutsu (Concealed Weapons) Small, easily concealed hand weapons used for emergency self-protection, such as brass knuckles, etc. - Jujutsu (Unarmed combat) - Shurikenjutsu (Blade Throwing) - Hojutsu (Musketeery) - Jouhou Kaishuu (Information gathering) - Chikujou (Fortifications) - Angou (signaling) - Jinei/Heihou (Strategy and Tactics) As you can see, the list is extensive and interesting, but there is also something less known but equally relevant, the Ninja Jūhakkei , more typical of the Shinobi, which consists of the previous techniques, added to the following: - Seishin teki kyōyō (Mental development and spiritual refinement) - Taijutsu (Unarmed Combat: Jutaijutsu, Daken Taijutsu, Koppo Jutsu, Kosshijutsu) - Bikenjutsu (Sword: Tantōjutsu, Kodachijutsu, Ōdachijutsu, Ninja tōjutsu, Ittojutsu, Nitojutsu) - Sōjutsu (Spear) - Naginatajutsu (Swordlance) - Bisentōjutsu (Halberd) - Kusarigamajutsu , Kyoketsu shoge (Sickle and chain, rope) - Roku shaku bōjutsu , Bōjutsu (Staff) - San shaku bō jutsu , jojutsu (Staff) - Shurikenjutsu , Senbannagejutsu (Throwing blades, usually to distract) - Kishajutsu (Mounted Archery) - Inton jutsu (Shinobi escape techniques) - Hokojutsu (Walking techniques) - Hensō jutsu (Shinobi clothing and disguise techniques) - Kakushi Bukijutsu (Hidden Weapons) - Ninyakujutsu (Use of medicine and poisons) - Gunryaku Heiho (Strategy) - Tenmon, Chimon (Strategies of Heaven and Earth, meteorology) If you notice, some disciplines are repeated, or are similar, and what changes is a greater imprint of the disciplines of concealment, espionage, infiltration, and related elements. This is due to the fact that in certain periods of Japanese history, part of the Shinobi, belonged in turn to the samurai caste, so the study of Bugei is intertwined with the needs of the study of the arts of concealment, so necessary for the Shinobi. We hope you enjoyed it, and that you are diligent in your training! If you want a good katana, check out our store!
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