The Training of an Inner Asian Nomad Army in the Pre-Modern Period

Abstract

Often the armies that emerged from the steppes of Inner Asia are viewed as throngs of horse-archers who overwhelmed their opponents through sheer ferocity or superior numbers. The typical observation about their military ability is that as nomads they were natural warriors inured since birth to riding and archery in the harsh climate of the steppe. While this view has an element of truth, the armies were actually better trained than is generally assumed. This article examines the training of Inner Asian armies. Although it focuses on the Mongols, it also explores the antecedents and evolution of training techniques across Inner Asia.