If there is one historical thing we should collectively reclaim from our neighbours, it is the Welsh longbow.
The Welsh longbow’s use was first documented by Gerald of Wales in 1188, in reference to the 1136 Battle of Crug Mawr. This battle is often cited by historians as the first use of the Welsh longbow, which Gerald of Wales stated was “made neither of horn, ash nor yew, but of elm”, though it was likely in use before this particular battle.
It measured just under 2 metres in length (6 ft. 6 inches), and with an arrow length of just under 1 metre. They also had an improved firing rate on earlier crossbows, with it being estimated that a force of 4,000 longbowmen could fire approximately 240,000 arrows in just under 5 minutes.
The Welsh longbow is believed to have become the English longbow following the Edwardian Conquest of Wales and the wider adoption of Welsh soldiers into the English army. It is known, too, that Edward was such a fan of the weapon (and liked keeping his archers in top form) that he banned all sports except for archery on Sundays.
We want it back!
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Niklas is the founder, owner, manager, editor, writer, video creator, voice over artist, and so forth, of Welsh Histories. He is passionate about the preservation of Welsh culture; the rejuvenation of the Welsh language and the promotion of Welsh history. Niklas currently resides in Pune, Maharashtra, with his beloved wife.