Georgian army in the Middle Ages

Each nation has its own system and certain elements necessary to maintain this system. The social and economic structures of nations provide us with information about their systems. Throughout history, all nations have created their own military forces in order to protect and preserve this system and to defend against internal and external threats. From the Arab domination to the establishment of the Kingdom of Georgia, and up until the reign of King Tamar (1184-1213), the ways Georgians fought, the weapons and clothing they used in warfare, and the military organization in the Middle Ages are examined. Over the centuries, Georgians fought against various nations, including the Iranians, Egyptians, Greeks, Khazars, Armenians, Arabs, Turks, Byzantines, and Ossetians (Alans). The Arab conquest of Georgia in the 7th century made the establishment of a regular army inevitable for the Georgians. During this period, influenced by the nations they fought, they strengthened their military structures. After 400 years of Arab rule, with the ascension of David the Builder to the throne of Georgia in 1089, significant military reforms were carried out, and the Georgians began challenging other nations. This study analyzes the components of the Georgian army and the tactics they applied in detail. Starting from the 10th century, the Great Turkish Invasions, known as Didi Turkoba which concentrated in Georgia, contributed to the development of the Georgian state's military structure. The thesis also analyzes the secret behind the successes of the Georgians in these wars. Moreover, the role of the Kipchaks in these battles and how they became part of the Georgian army and adapted to it is investigated. In this study, Georgian sources have been utilized to accurately present the historical process.