The longbows effects on Medieval England: Social and Economical

Essay by rippefectJunior High, 9th gradeA, May 2004

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Davi Haberman

Dr. Zevin

The Welsh were the first people on the British Isles (Lubienski, Andy) to use the longbow in war. During frequent battles with the English, Welsh archers penetrated English battalions with the longbow. England realized the power of this weapon and in 1280 King Edward developed an enhanced version of the Welsh longbow and adopted it as the main weapon of his English Army (Eade, Anthony). The longbow went on to dominate Medieval European weaponry for the next hundred years. Its long-range capabilities and rapid firing rate were perfect for battles fought in the vast plains of Europe. The long bow is historically significant because it is an example of how one weapon can revolutionize a country. To prove that the longbow transformed England this essay will discuss longbow laws, and English trade and commerce based on the longbow.

England realized the power of its new weapon and wanted to keep it powerful.

One foot was added to each side of the bow for increased range, and tighter yews (string which was pulled back) were developed for extra power (The English longbow men). All in all much effort was applied to guarantee that the longbow was the dominant weapon on the battlefield.

England wanted to utilize the longbow to it utmost capabilities. A series of laws was instituted to make sure the strength of the longbow was not wasted.

"Assize of Arms 1242 C.E", was a code of English Law regarding the ownership of arms. A Clause instituted by King Henry II- stated that every Englishman who earned 2-5 pounds annually was obligated to purchase a longbow (History second amendment). This ensured that at a moments notice English militiamen were ready to be deployed into battle. No time was wasted in servicemen traveling to armories to be...