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Blunders in the Battlefield
Episode 1918th December 2023 • The Remedial Scholar • Levi Harrison
00:00:00 00:51:15

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Join in as we explore historical military mishaps in battles like Changping, Cannae, Trasimene, Yarmouk, Agincourt, and Little Bighorn. From ancient China to the American frontier, we dissect the strategic missteps, tactical errors, and unforeseen twists that have left their mark on the course of human conflict. Tune in on your preferred platform to uncover the lessons in leadership and strategy hidden within these blunderous battles. #RemedialScholar #MilitaryHistory #Podcast #BattleBlunders 🎧

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Transcripts

00;00;00;02 - 00;00;18;19

Levi

Not sure if you're similar to me and that you view a lot of history through military campaigns. I think that for me it is most common that the stages of historical turmoil are often separated by military actions. One kingdom succumbs to another through a series of violent encounters, and then a regime will change and give way to another that it will eventually experience the same thing more often than not.

00;00;18;20 - 00;00;38;08

Levi

Because of this, there's a course a lot of battles to discuss throughout history. And instead of doing it in terms of what my intuition tells me I should do, I want to look at the most disastrous military campaigns in history. Some of these are obvious and some are pretty interesting. All of them are very badly ended for one side, either for centuries after or completely change them altogether.

00;00;38;09 - 00;00;46;12

Levi

Action, violence, swaying of kingdoms in the proverbial pendulum. All of that and more on another episode of the remedial scholar.

00;00;46;14 - 00;00;49;28

Bad Sanction Headmistress.

00;00;50;00 - 00;01;25;10

Levi

I feel I was denied credit critically. The need to know in information. Information belongs to simply stop. Step in your remedial class. Welcome everyone, to another episode of The Remedial Scholar. I am your host, Levi, and I am happy to be here. I hope everybody is doing well in their holiday shopping. I guess on 98% of the US population at the mall this weekend.

00;01;25;11 - 00;01;43;18

Levi

So if you want to avoid that kind of traffic, you should check out the merch store. I mean, why wouldn't you? It's chock full of fun designs and is a great way to help the show. Obviously you don't have to, but if you would like, you know, the link is in the description for you to follow. You can also share with your friends or just share the show In general, Sharing this with your friends is a great way to help us out.

00;01;43;22 - 00;02;06;15

Levi

Beyond that, reviewing probably the best other way if you feel so inclined to do so on whatever app you use. All right, enough for the begging on to the real reason you're here. Disastrous blunders, foolish. All of these words describe the battles that we are going to be discussing today. We'll be giving a little context to each one and driving in a bit of detail before moving into the results and how it impacted the overall conflict that they were involved.

00;02;06;21 - 00;02;34;04

Levi

These battles occurred all throughout history and all across the globe, and there's way too many to cover in one episode, just so you know. So don't expect like if you don't hear one, don't be like, man, you didn't talk about this one. Well, sorry, there's only a billion battles to discuss. So the first one is a story of wealth, resource management and one of the most bloody battles in all of history during the warring states period of ancient China, which lasted from 465 to 221 BCE.

00;02;34;05 - 00;02;54;08

Levi

This battle unfolded the warring states similar to the period in Japan of the same name which had taken place much later, essentially a civil war of sorts, with everyone vying for control of these places, different factions and states trying to become the one ruler of China and actually end at the heels of this battle or the repercussions from it.

00;02;54;09 - 00;03;25;15

Levi

And to 65 BCE, the Chin initiated a strategic move by attacking the state of Han, capturing Shenyang, and effectively isolating Han's commentary from its southern heartland. The ensuing years witnessed Chen's relentless efforts isolate Shan Deng further by seizing crucial mountain passes and fortresses along the Thai Han Mountains. In a surprising turn, the commander thinking opted to offer the region to the neighboring state of Zhao, strategically west of Zhao's capital, Handan, recognizing the potential threat.

00;03;25;16 - 00;03;49;25

Levi

King Zhao Chiang of Zhao dispatched an experienced General Liang Po to lead an army and defend the region from Chen's encroachment in the year 262 BCE, marked by the commencement of the battle. As the Chin Army, led by Wang, he invaded Shandong, compelled compelling saying things evacuation. Leon Po in response established three defensive line south of the champion Changping pass.

00;03;49;26 - 00;04;13;12

Levi

Initial encounters favored Chen, leading to the capture of the GAO ping pass and other strongholds, causing the collapse of the first defensive line. Adapting to the situation, Lampard focused on reinforcing positions along the Dan River, initiating a bitter two year stalemate with the chin. Despite the massive reinforcement of positions and and a total combatant count nearing a million by the by 260 B.C..

00;04;13;18 - 00;04;42;04

Levi

Both sides faced a protracted impasse as Lampard strategy wore down the Chin's forces. Internal issues arose and Zhao, frustrated by prolonged conflict and influenced by Chen's rumors about Poe, Hangzhou Chiang Replace Lampard with Zhao Kuo, the overconfident son of the late general Zhao Zhao. Seizing the opportunity, Chen secretly replaced Wang here with the renowned bike by chief known for ruthless efficiency, annihilation and battles.

00;04;42;05 - 00;05;02;00

Levi

Jacquot now in command, discarded previous defensive strategies and launched an aggressive move to break the stalemate. The essential idea was to cross the river and go for Chen's flank, but in this attempt had abandoned their camp and left all of their food and supplies. Now, you don't need to be Stonewall Jackson to know that abandoning your supplies when the army is half a mile strong is a bad idea.

00;05;02;01 - 00;05;20;15

Levi

By Chi anticipated Zhao Kuo's plan, executing a maneuver reminiscent of the Battle of Cannae, which we will talk about a little bit later. He purposely led Zarco to believe his forces had depleted. You know, stretched the lines super thin and then countered with a hidden troop. Chen encircled and trapped Zhao forces, cutting off supply lines and dividing the army up.

00;05;20;17 - 00;05;46;08

Levi

They would try to retreat, but the mountainous region offered little in the way of escape. Instead, they resigned to building impromptu fortifications. After a futile attempt to breach the encirclement, Zarqawi's forces suffered heavy casualties with by launching relentless attacks during a 46 day siege. Stricken by hunger and desperation, the exhausted Zhao army resorted to slaughtering horses and allegedly went full Dorner, resorting to cannibalism by cheese, repeated assaults for the war down the besieged forces.

00;05;46;14 - 00;06;14;18

Levi

In September, Zhao Kuo was killed during a final attempt to breach the encirclement leading to the surrender of the remaining Zhao army. So over no, not quite post-victory by Chu face the challenge of handling a large number of prisoners. You might remember half a million soldiers strong this army. So what do you do? Well, fearing potential unrest, he ordered the execution of over 450,000 Zao soldiers, only sparing 240 of the youngest to spread terror.

00;06;14;20 - 00;06;38;01

Levi

Pretty intense. Despite Chen's later defeat at the siege of Condon, the battle of champing lasted had lasting repercussions. The Zhao never recovered from the loss of manpower, while Chen rebounded eventually and achieved dominance over the states, culminating in the unification of China in 221 B.C.. This battle stands as a pivotal, pivotal event in the warring states period. Reshaping the geopolitical landscape of ancient China.

00;06;38;02 - 00;07;00;19

Levi

Pretty intense, right? Losing half a million people. I mean, estimated like estimated. Either way, a lot of times in history there are, you know, okay, we say we lost this many. But even so, it's usually half. I mean, if on the low end. So this is 200 and 220,000 soldiers, that's still a big chunk. No wonder that Chen was able to win out over the other conflicts.

00;07;00;20 - 00;07;25;21

Levi

You have this biggest competing army decimated. You executed all of them, and there's not really any other army that can stand up to yours at that point. All right. Moving forward, a few decades to a different continent to place as captivated all of our collective unconscious on a daily basis. That's right, babes. We're going to Rome. This one is nice, too, because it gets to show people the fallibility of the Roman Empire was not just constant domination.

00;07;25;27 - 00;07;40;01

Levi

I mean, it was mostly that in the times when it was not. We have cases like this where I'm about to tell you, both of these battles took place during the second Punic War. What was the second Punic War. Was the one after the first one? No. Well, I mean, yes, but there's slightly more to it than that.

00;07;40;02 - 00;08;00;12

Levi

The first and second Punic Wars involved Rome and Carthage. The first being wars ended after about two decades of fighting in 241 B.C., and there was a few decades of non fighting until the second pick back up into 18 B.C. In most lists on the subject, the most disastrous campaigns, the second Punic War has the privilege of having not one but two battles on them.

00;08;00;12 - 00;08;20;03

Levi

The Battle of Cannae, which was the most disastrous in terms of planning, and then the Battle of Trece. I mean, the Battle of Trece, Amien predated Cannae and I think it really set up the other losses very well. The Combatants from Carthage is a name in which is very famous at Roman history, which is Hannibal. He joined the family business of really given the Romans the business.

00;08;20;04 - 00;08;49;04

Levi

His father, him. His father was Hamilcar. His father was Hamilcar Barca, who was the Carthage Carthaginian instigator of the first Punic War. Hannibal was, of course, most famous for his use of elephants as he crossed the Alps. He did this after fighting his way through Iberia, which is modern day Spain. It's a bulk of the war took place on the northern coast of Africa and the western and northwestern coast of the Mediterranean on the west side of Italy, and then also dipped into the Italian peninsula, but not primarily there.

00;08;49;05 - 00;09;05;15

Levi

Now, Iberia at the time was not under the umbrella of Rome at this point, but Rome had allies in the region. And when the Hannibal conquered them, that was trouble for Rome. These battles all took place in Italy, just for reference. Now, the first one, like near Lake Trece, Amien, which is only a few hours drive from Rome proper.

00;09;05;16 - 00;09;23;08

Levi

Now, a few other battles had taken place between his crossing of the Alps, but this was the first one where Rome was probably not super pumped about the outlook, and this was only a year into the 17 year long war. Two battles in two months between the powers of Carthage and Rome occurred into 18 BCE and November and December.

00;09;23;08 - 00;09;43;12

Levi

The battle of trivia being the latter, the next one next major one wouldn't occur until June of the following year, following the disheartening outcome of the Battle of trivia. Rome experienced initial alarm, which was somewhat alleviated with the arrival of some erroneous. Subsequently, the Consulship was bestowed upon Nice Jimenez and Gaius Flemons, heralding a surge in war preparations.

00;09;43;12 - 00;10;10;29

Levi

The consoles elected the consuls elect embarked on a comprehensive strategy, recruiting legions, reinforcing key locations, constructing, constructing a formidable naval fleet in establishing, establishing vital supply depots. Now, the fleet thing is interesting because the biggest part about cannibal strategy was I'm not even going to play with the water. Like he didn't even worry about it. And I think that is very important because Rome did dump a lot of resources into being a naval power at this point.

00;10;11;00 - 00;10;35;09

Levi

You might remember from the Pirates episode, but just something to keep in mind. They spread their resources pretty far out and then he didn't even use what they spread half of their resources to, essentially. So in the spring of 217 B.C.E., Hannibal and the Carthaginians traversed the Apennines, catching the Romans off guard with an unexpected route through a true slam slamming us in ere pursue believed he was chasing, fleeing, fleeing Carthaginians.

00;10;35;10 - 00;11;11;24

Levi

The Romans, oblivious to the Carthaginian presence, hastily marched without conducting proper recon, which is, you know, never a good idea. It would have taken you know, a handful of horsemen to run through this area and then find out that there was an entire army lurking. Seizing the opportunity, Hannibal recognized that he had eluded his pursuers, orchestrated his masterful ambush at Lake Trestle mean under the cover of night, the Carthaginians executed a strategic march, positioning themselves discreetly behind hills along the North Shore on June 21st to 17, unsuspecting Romans advancing along the lake and willingly walked right into the trap.

00;11;11;24 - 00;11;41;12

Levi

thaginians only taking around:

00;11;41;17 - 00;12;03;08

Levi

And these numbers seem pretty close to accurate, considering how massively devastating surprise attacks like this were or were to armies that are pretty much evenly matched. That kind of thing can take two armies that are pretty competitive in their numbers and tilt it just really heavily to one side. The reverberations of the defeat at Lake Trestle mean spread back through Rome, sparking panic.

00;12;03;08 - 00;12;26;06

Levi

In response, Quintus Fabius Maximus assumed the role of dictator and adopted a Fabian strategy named after him, emphasizing avoidance of direct conflict. Meanwhile, Hannibal continued his devastating incursions into Apulia, culminating in Rome's most catastrophic military to sea in the battle of Cannae in 216 B.C.. Luckily, this next one is from the same war, so you need a bunch of set up.

00;12;26;06 - 00;12;50;29

Levi

Kenney was targeted by Hannibal because of its supply stores. Mention I mentioned that Rome was kind of bolstering their supplies a little bit earlier. Well, this is one of those places. And not only did it benefit Hannibal by consuming taking those supplies, but it also caused distress, further distress across Rome because Cannae was not just a supply store location, but it was essentially the Roman version of a state.

00;12;50;29 - 00;13;13;11

Levi

Capital is a regional power and with it being such a pivotal regional power, the new spread in this made the rest of Rome, rest of Rome very nervous. The rest of Rome very nervous. And for good reason. The prelude to actual battle consisted of Hannibal deploying Cavalry to dissuade troops from taking water back to the camps, which is is kind of sets up the frustration at the Roman camps.

00;13;13;11 - 00;13;46;19

Levi

You know, we just try to get some water and this guy won't even let us drink, dude. At the balcony, Hannibal employed a strategic formation, creating a crescent shaped deployment with Hispanic and Celtic troops in the center, gradually withdrawing to lure the Romans deeper. The Carthaginian cavalry gained an advantage on the flanks, and when the Roman infantry advanced, Hannibal orchestrated a controlled retreat, forming a tight semicircle around the Romans in the dust filled battlefield, the Roman visibility was hindered and psychological factors, including lack of sleep and thirst, complicated the inventory experience.

00;13;46;24 - 00;14;15;04

Levi

So what I'm talking about, like we don't we can't even get water. We're we're thirsty. We're tired, and now we're half half encircled. The Carthaginians are deliberately withdrawing turn, turn the Roman infantry strength into a weakness, causing them to lose cohesion. Hannibal's African infantry, initially uncommitted, now encircled the Romans in a pincer movement. Simultaneously, Carthaginian Cavalry attacked from the rear, and the Roman infantry found themselves enclosed, leading to a total massacre.

00;14;15;04 - 00;14;38;17

Levi

to:

00;14;38;17 - 00;14;54;24

Levi

Anyway, some of the strategies utilized in this battle are things I've definitely done in that game, which is kind of fun to see it work in a generated way. Like it's hard to visualize, visualize these things. A lot of the pictures are just like squares on a map and you're like, Okay, cool. What? What does that do for me?

00;14;54;24 - 00;15;16;01

Levi

Not a whole lot, but. But having the enemy army essentially wrap around your advancing army after both starting out at a pretty flat front is pretty bad news. The aftermath saw Rome in disarray, losing a significant portion of its male population and facing revolts in southern Italy. Hellenistic provinces joined Hannibal's cause, and Philip, the fifth of Mastodon, pledged support.

00;15;16;01 - 00;15;53;03

Levi

Rome's morale plummeted, and but the city resisted despair, raising new legions and mobilizing the population. The Hannibal, despite the catastrophic defeat of Rome, chose not to march on Rome, opting more for negotiations, the Romans refused to parlay and intensified their efforts to maintain resilience. The war in Italy continued with occasional battles, and the Fabian strategy that I mentioned before, eventually leading to Hannibal's retreat in the final confrontation at Zama, where Rome emerged victorious, ending the second Punic War, the turning point of the second Punic War favoring Rome can be attributed to several key factors.

00;15;53;03 - 00;16;18;06

Levi

Firstly, Scipio Africanus initiated a successful campaign in Spain against Hannibal's brother, has drew Bull Barca with victories at the Battle of Back Villa in 208 and later at Olympia in 206, disrupting the Carthaginian control of Spain. Basically, this guy worked backwards, like the way that Hannibal moved. Scipio basically followed him, but like at a at a few years distance, right?

00;16;18;08 - 00;16;44;29

Levi

So as Hannibal's routing through Italy, doing his thing, Scipio was moving through Spain, Iberia, you know, that area and just conquering and cutting off crucial supplies and things that the Carthaginians needed to continue in, in Italy. Now, after Scipio had done his thing in Spain, he secured Spain and then slid down in the North Africa and then pushed the Carthaginian influence out of there also.

00;16;44;29 - 00;17;15;02

Levi

And this put pressure on Hannibal to move focus away from Italy. Now, the war officially concluded with the signing of the Treaty of Peace into one Carthage under harsh terms, surrendered its fleet in overseas territory, faced severe military limitations, and paid indemnities to Rome. Rome emerged as the dominant power in Western Mediterranean because of this, and all of this ended in Rome, winning the second Punic War after a very, very harsh first half like they had us in the first half an hour long.

00;17;15;02 - 00;17;37;09

Levi

The next entry demonstrates why it's important to have a unified front in your army. The Byzantine Empire had been the Eastern Roman Empire, as you may remember. That shifted eventually being the eastern part of the once Roman Empire. Their foes were often of that of the Muslim countries to the east, the Middle East, you know. And in the seventh century, C.E., the Byzantine Empire found themselves at odds with a force led by Khalid Al-Walid.

00;17;37;09 - 00;18;04;06

Levi

This was part of a larger ongoing war known as the Byzantine Arab Wars, which began following the death of the Muslim Prophet Muhammad in 632 CE Byzantine Arab War, spanning the seven through 11 centuries, were prolonged and dynamics struggle for dominance in the eastern Mediterranean between the Byzantine Empire and the emerging Arab Muslim force. These conflicts, driven by religion, political and territorial ambitions, played a pivotal role in shaping the geopolitical landscape of the region.

00;18;04;06 - 00;18;31;05

Levi

Beginning in the seventh set, beginning in the seventh century after the death of the Prophet Muhammad in 632. As I mentioned, the Islamic caliphate, guided by Rashid in caliphs, initiated a mission to propagate Islam and establish political dominance. Visionary leaders such as Khalid Al-Walid Walid, visionary leaders such as Khalid al Waleed and later Caliph Umar led full Muslim forces in swift conquests, capturing key territories like Syria, Palestine and Egypt.

00;18;31;06 - 00;18;58;09

Levi

These early triumphs executed under the banner of the Rasheed and Kallus, fundamentally altered the power balance in the eastern Mediterranean. Religious fervor and the geopolitical ambition were intertwined during the initial conquests, as the Islamic caliphate sought to consolidate influence through territorial expansion. The clash between Byzantine Empire and the Arab forces intensified as both sides vied for control over strategic territories and religious influence.

00;18;58;10 - 00;19;24;15

Levi

Throughout the centuries long conflict, the Byzantine and Arab wars witnessed fluctuating fortunes, territorial exchanges and shifts in power dynamics. The convergence of political, religious and territorial motivations turned to turn the conflict into a crucible shaping it, shaping the destiny of the Eastern Mediterranean. This protracted struggle left an indelible mark on the region's history, influencing cultural, political and religious trajectories for centuries to come.

00;19;24;15 - 00;19;51;20

Levi

One of the biggest battles during this time was the Battle of Janek, a pivotal engagement, a 636 C.E. emerged as a seminal event during the initial phase of the Arab Muslim expansion into the Byzantine Empire. This battle took place on the banks of the Yarmouk River, spanning contemporary Jordan and Syria. At the helm of the Muslim forces stood Khalid Alwaleed, a celebrated military strategist renowned for his pivotal roles in early Islamic conquests on the Byzantine side.

00;19;51;20 - 00;20;15;07

Levi

Vahan I think now it's pronounced a seasonal jet as a seasonal. He only does it in the winter actually is not completely untrue. A season general appointed by Emperor Heraclius assumed command, adding an additional layer of complexity to the impending conflict. Khalid's tactical brilliance materialized through a masterstroke, a maneuver intended to concentrate Muslim forces for a divisive showdown.

00;20;15;08 - 00;20;49;21

Levi

This strategic move compelled Byzantine to consolidate their five armies, including introducing logistical complexities into this equation. The Byzantines, faced with the challenge of sustaining their formidable army stationed at Yarmouk Plain, encountered encountered a bunch of logistical hurdles. The proximity of Damascus, their nearest base, proved inadequate, for they proved inadequate for their needs. Tensions among Byzantine commanders escalated, fueled by longstanding ecclesiastical feuds and internal power struggles, creating an environment fraught with mistrust between the commanders, which is not what you want.

00;20;49;21 - 00;21;17;25

Levi

The battle ground itself was divided into four sections, with each side mirroring the opposite and deployments. Conflict unfolded over several days, marked by strategic phases of attacks and counterattacks that heightened the complexity of this engagement. Estimates of the involved troops range wildly. Obviously, contemporary accounts of the Byzantine Empire reach 200,000, while the Muslim army held around 40,000. Now, modern estimates put the Byzantine strength at 42 150,000, which is pretty drastic on the high end.

00;21;17;25 - 00;21;45;07

Levi

to:

00;21;45;07 - 00;22;11;22

Levi

Day three Byzantine endeavors to bridge Muslim positions were met with strategic finance by Khalid stabilizing the situation and laying the groundwork for subsequent divisive actions. Now the biggest day, biggest day of all of them arrived on day six as Khalid orchestrated a bold offensive driving the Byzantine Cavalry off the battlefield, exposed vulnerable infantry flanking attacks and intricate maneuvers resulted in the collapse of the Byzantine wings and center.

00;22;11;22 - 00;22;36;20

Levi

The Muslims encircled the Byzantines and initiated in a and encircled the Byzantines, initiating a general retreat that culminated in the resounding victory for Khalid. The Battle of Yarmouk witnessed a critical factor in the Byzantine defeat. The internal discord that I mentioned before, the lack of cooperation amongst the generals. The Byzantine Army, facing a formidable force, struggled with internal tensions and mistrust among the commanders.

00;22;36;20 - 00;23;05;25

Levi

One of the key challenges stemmed from the longstanding feuds that I mentioned among these commanders. Personal rivalries and conflicting interests exacerbated the already complex military situation. These generals failed to forge a unified front and collaborate effectively, leading to a disjointed command structure. Lack of cohesion became evident in the logistical and strategic aspects of the battle. Khalid Strategic brilliance in concentrating Muslim forces for a divisive battle forced the Byzantines to gather their armies.

00;23;05;25 - 00;23;35;01

Levi

However, as mentioned, these logistical challenges kind of threw this whole defense into or out of whack. And also really important to note, they had a large army, and this army was unfamiliar with the terrain in which they were fighting also. So that's not great. You know, the Byzantine commanders, instead of presenting a unified front, found themselves basically at each other's throats, most of the time refusing to send their troops or back up the other ones.

00;23;35;01 - 00;23;58;01

Levi

These would lead to things like a hindrance in communication, like they wouldn't communicate effectively with the other generals, the planning, their planning was all thrown out because they couldn't decisively make decisions to work with one another. On the flip side, obviously, Khalid had things pretty down pat. He's ready to go. He's got everything lined up exactly how he wants to be.

00;23;58;01 - 00;24;33;27

Levi

ates of the losses put around:

00;24;33;27 - 00;24;52;03

Levi

to:

00;24;52;03 - 00;25;13;09

Levi

It's, you know, definitely need their own episode because they're convoluted and messy. This particular event was one of the more disastrous bits for the Crusaders, which is fine because the entire crusade was a disaster. If you were unaware the Crusades, a series of religious wars initiated by European Christians aimed to reclaim and secure Christian holy, holy sites in the Holy Land from Muslim control.

00;25;13;09 - 00;25;42;12

Levi

he First Crusade, starting in:

00;25;42;12 - 00;26;18;13

Levi

lated. The battle of Haiti in:

00;26;18;15 - 00;26;45;16

Levi

landscape of these battles in:

00;26;45;19 - 00;27;08;17

Levi

Subsequent battle of Cresson resulted in significant defeat for the Crusaders. Saladin then laid siege to the two Tiberius, leading to strategic debates among the crusaders. Despite warnings GHI advanced against Saladin and influenced by Israel. They read the forward's advice. This decision, shaped by political conflicts and reluctance to disband the army, ultimately set the stage for pivotal battle of Haiti.

00;27;08;24 - 00;27;35;18

Levi

In July of:

00;27;35;19 - 00;28;03;26

Levi

During the night, the Muslims demoralized the Crusaders through prayer song and fire, exasperating their thirst. Play Freebird on July 4th. Blinded by smoke from fireworks, probably the Crusaders faced muzzle mortar attacks advised by Gerard and Reynold. These brother Amalric formed a battle lines and engaged, and the engagement began. Thirsty and demoralized Crusaders attempted to reach the springs of 18, but were surrounded by Saladin's four forces blocking any retreat count.

00;28;03;26 - 00;28;27;07

Levi

Raymond managed to reach the lake of Tiberius. While this situation worsened, Christian infantry deserted and despite desperate charges, the Crusaders were defeated, many were killed and others taken prisoner. Key Amalric Reynaud and other barons were among the captives. In Saladin's tent. He offered water for a sign of mercy. Bagi, unaware of the custom, passed it to renown, accusing Saladin accused.

00;28;27;09 - 00;28;49;17

Levi

Right. All the breaking the truce leading conflicting leading to conflicting reports of his execution, either by saladin's hand or his guards. He was spared as kings do not kill kings allegedly on little the Red Baron class from Saladin following the battle of a team, significant losses befell the Crusaders. The true cross was inverted on a lance and sent to his Marcus crusader.

00;28;49;17 - 00;29;18;03

Levi

amascus and later released in:

00;29;18;03 - 00;29;38;15

Levi

Saladin focused. Saladin followed Islamic jurists jurisprudence. Considering it punishable by death. The rest of the captured Knights and soldiers were sold into slavery. Some reported leave for the price of sandals, which is not. I mean, if you're going to be if you're going to be sold slave, really slavery, you'll only be the price of sandals. That doesn't seem good.

00;29;38;15 - 00;30;00;10

Levi

I don't know. High ranking Frankish barons captured were held in Damascus and treated well by others, while others took lower ranking prisoners as slaves. As mentioned, July 5th, Saladin marched to Tiberius and Countess as Sheba surrendered. The Citadel. Raymond of Tripoli, who had escaped the battle, later died of pleurisy. The seat left the Crusaders with little reserve to defend against Saladin's forces.

00;30;00;15 - 00;30;27;19

Levi

Only about 200 knights escaped the battle total of 20,000 estimated men. The Crusaders lost most of them. The aftermath saw Saladin capturing 52 towns and fortifications, including Acre, Nablus, Haifa, Torun, Sudan, Beirut and Ashkelon. By mid-September, Teer was saved by Conrad Mount for while Jerusalem was defended briefly and later surrendered to Saladin on October 2nd. So pretty interesting.

00;30;27;23 - 00;30;49;29

Levi

The Crusades. There's too much going on in those things, do think and it's kind of weird because it's kind of an extension of the Byzantine Arab wars. Well, I guess for the, you know, the Muslim side, but it's just very interesting. Anyway, the next century takes us to the time of one previous episode, Miss Joan of Arc during the Hundred Years War doesn't take place while she was actively involved in the conflict.

00;30;49;29 - 00;31;09;03

Levi

Rather, it takes place a few years after she was born. And, you know, again, since she was only 13 and again since she was only 19 when she died, that doesn't help really to clarify. But she was only three when this battle happened, so she definitely wasn't involved. But I digress. If you recall from the Joan episode, you remember that before she was involved, things were pretty bleak for the French.

00;31;09;03 - 00;31;45;14

Levi

longed conflict spanning from:

00;31;45;16 - 00;32;04;07

Levi

le. The Treaty of Brittany in:

00;32;04;07 - 00;32;26;07

Levi

Later on in:

00;32;26;09 - 00;32;49;22

Levi

, consisting of approximately:

00;32;49;22 - 00;33;07;26

Levi

Quemoy archers were under command of Sir Thomas R Bingham. The English likely adopted their usual battle line position long bowmen on flanks with men in arms and knights in the center, and possibly some archers in the center as well. Before the battle, the English made their confessions, and Henry ordered his men to spend the night in silence to maintain focused.

00;33;07;26 - 00;33;34;10

Levi

arms and around. And for two:

00;33;34;11 - 00;33;59;06

Levi

The spirits and a desire for glory led many French lords to mass in the front lines with archers crossbows in place behind them, fields narrowness and muddy terrain favored the English. As the battle unfolded, the French cavalry, disorganized and unable to outflank the long bowmen or charge through the sharp, sharpened stakes, protecting them suffered disastrous defeat. The French men at arms wearing play armor closed in on English lines, but faced a hail of arrows.

00;33;59;06 - 00;34;20;00

Levi

And if the arrows did or did not penetrate the the very thick play armor, probably it probably hit a lot of the the gaps, as you know, with just the massive volley of arrows flying through, you're going to hit gaps. I don't know about hitting through the armor itself, but maybe these long bows were pretty intense. They got a lot of force behind them.

00;34;20;00 - 00;34;44;10

Levi

But either way, the French way down by their armor were stuck in this slop of mud, very similar to how Magellan was stuck in the the muddy beach in the Philippines. Like it's a very similar situation to that there. Touraine also restricted the French's ability to use their numerical advantage effectively. The French meant at arm's reach, the front of the English line, pushing it back.

00;34;44;15 - 00;35;07;21

Levi

When the archers ran out of arrows, they engaged the now disordered French men at arms using hatchets, swords and mallets. They exhausted French forces, unable to lift their weapons or fighting over fallen comrades, or just completely overwhelmed. The only French success was the attack on the lightly protected British baggage train, seizing some of Henry's personal treasures after initial victory.

00;35;07;22 - 00;35;33;17

Levi

t for the French, with around:

00;35;33;17 - 00;36;01;00

Levi

s, The Herald reported around:

00;36;01;00 - 00;36;23;24

Levi

English casualties were comparatively lower with around with at least 112 killed, including the Duke of York and the Earl of Sussex, while the Victor was militarily decisive, it was its immediate impact did not furthered English conquest as Henry, the fifth to his return to England triumphed, established the legitimacy of the Lancastrian monarchy and facilitated future English campaigns in France.

00;36;23;24 - 00;36;48;26

Levi

lified by the Treaty of WA in:

00;36;48;26 - 00;37;08;12

Levi

Kind of turn the tide after that. All right, let's jump out of medieval Europe and show these people how some good old fashioned Americans lose a battle. Am I right now? Yeah. Well, too bad I could make it easy and talk about Gettysburg or any number of the Confederate defeats we all know or should know how Sherman took it to them on several glorious occasions.

00;37;08;13 - 00;37;34;18

Levi

But no, this next battle is one that is a little more intriguing, a little more messy. In the 19th century, there are a lot of conflicts which occurred when left battle scars all across the geography of the United States. A lot of it took place during the Civil War, but also battles within, you know, with native populations checkered the West, where places like the Dakotas, Montana Territories and Wyoming and others were some of the sites of the most decisive battles.

00;37;34;18 - 00;38;09;05

Levi

rop of the Great Sioux War of:

00;38;09;05 - 00;38;32;07

Levi

This court earmarked earmarked the Great Sioux Reservation and assured the Lakota Sioux ownership of the Black Hills. However, the allure of gold in the Black Hills beckoned settlers breaching the treaties terms and kindling tensions, Of course. Yeah. Obviously you can have this area. We're going to kick you off the place you live now. We're going to seclude you here and then we're going to find out, Hey, man, there's some gold there that we want.

00;38;32;07 - 00;39;10;05

Levi

sparking the Sioux Wars from:

00;39;10;05 - 00;39;39;07

Levi

,:

00;39;39;07 - 00;40;08;08

Levi

th,:

00;40;08;08 - 00;40;30;04

Levi

Colonel George Armstrong Custer led one prong, opting for an independent and swift maneuver to surprise and confront the Native American tribes. This context sets the stage for the Battle of Little Bighorn, a monumental confrontation destined to etch its place in history as a defining moment in the relentless struggle between Plains Indians and the westward expanding forces of the United States.

00;40;30;04 - 00;40;55;12

Levi

,:

00;40;55;12 - 00;41;27;10

Levi

By late June, Terry ordered Custer seventh Cavalry to scout the Rosebud with the option to deviate from orders based on Custer's judgment. That's an important factor here. On June 24th, Custer Scouts positioned at Crow's Nest spotted a vast Native American encampment about 50 miles away. Custer contemplated a surprise attack, but received reports of hostiles discovering his trail. Concerned about an immediate threat, Custer divided his forces into three battalions under Major Reno, Captain Benton and himself unaware that the native American group on his trail was leaving the encampment.

00;41;27;12 - 00;41;57;12

Levi

Custer decided to attack without delay, fearing the village might disperse. The morning of June 25th saw the division of Custer's companies preparing for the impending engagement. Armies pre battle assumptions influenced by the inaccurate information or misunderstanding of information miscalculated the number of native Americans they would encounter. Custer relied on estimates that failed to consider, quote unquote, reservation Indians who had joined the non reservation tribes, resulting in the unawareness of the significant Native American forces awaiting him.

00;41;57;12 - 00;42;29;26

Levi

As Custer approached Little Bighorn, he observed only the pony herd and underestimated the Warriors presence due to a misinterpretation of their activity. Custer strategy aimed at engaging noncombatants in the encampments, intending to capture hostages, innocent men, women and children well as disabled people. And he was going to use them as hostages to pressure the Warriors into surrendering. His battalions were positioned to write into the camp secure non command hostages counting on striking consternation among the warriors.

00;42;29;27 - 00;42;53;01

Levi

Custer believed the close proximity of women and children would favorably influence peace negotiations. Custer faced challenges as he sought to capture women and children. Fearing detection, he abandoned his initial plan to scout the village before attacking. Custer's intent was to attack swiftly before the village dispersed. And with that belief, with the belief that Benton would with a pack train, would provide support eventually.

00;42;53;02 - 00;43;19;07

Levi

All right. So in the historic clash at Little Bighorn, Major Reno led his detachment into action, driven by the orders of Custer to engage the sous tribe's village. However, the lack of precise information regarding the village's size and location proved to be a critical oversight as Reno's forces approach. They are met with the startling realization that they were up against a much larger and more formidable Native American presence than initially anticipated in response to the unexpected situation.

00;43;19;07 - 00;43;41;14

Levi

Reno, sensing a potential trap, swiftly ordered his men to dismount and assumed a skirmish line formation. Despite these tactical adjustments, the Native Americans holding a numerical advantage over Reno's detachment launched a fierce counterattack, repelling a rapid and disorderly retreat. The draw was not without cost. As casualties began to mount with and wounded soldiers were regrettably abandoned in the chaotic aftermath.

00;43;41;16 - 00;44;10;08

Levi

Amidst the turmoil, Captain Benton arrived later to reinforce Reno's beleaguered, beleaguered forces. On the strategic vantage point of Reno Hill, named later on. Obviously, despite the ominous sounds of the gunfire emanating from the north, Benton focused on shoring up the defense position rather than advancing towards Custer's location. The troops now stationed at the Bluffs valiantly defended themselves against the persistent assaults that continued until the cover of nightfall.

00;44;10;09 - 00;44;31;24

Levi

The details surrounding Custer's actions in the battle of Little Bighorn remain largely speculative due to the absence of survivors from his immediate command. And the accounts from surviving Native Americans, while valuable, are contradictory, sometimes and unclear as well. While the sounds of gunfire heard by Reno Benton's men on June 25th likely emanated from Custer's fighters stationed in Reno.

00;44;31;25 - 00;44;57;20

Levi

On Reno Hill, remained unaware of his fate until General Terry's arrival on June 27. Upon examining the Custer's battle side, the Army struggled to piece together events. Given the lack of organized resistance and the removal of most Native American casualties. The soldiers found Custer's dead, stripped, ritually, mutilated, and in a state of decomposed edition. Complicating the identification, Custer's own body bore two fatal gunshots.

00;44;57;20 - 00;45;21;23

Levi

With the possibility of a postmortem head wound. Lakota oral history suggests the controversial notion that Custer may have committed suicide to avoid capture. So adding this, adding to the potential to the confusion of this event. As mentioned, various accounts diverge on Custer's movements during the battle. Some proposal attempted to forward the river medicine tale, while others asserted that he never approached the river.

00;45;21;23 - 00;45;51;01

Levi

Continuing north across coolie archeological findings and reassessed. Native American testimony indicate the possibility of a divided Custer force and a faint attack. Southwest from the nearby Cartwright Ridge. The debate continues over whether Custer engaged in an organized attack or was forced into a retreat. Custer's Final Resistance on last stand, Hill, although portrayed traditionally as a last stand, is challenged by modern archeology, suggesting that his troops were overwhelmed by a single charge.

00;45;51;01 - 00;46;15;01

Levi

Rather than being surrounded and fighting to the death. In that fashion, the battle's closing segment marked by desperate stands of volley fire, saw the majority of the Native American casualties at that point, the fate of Custer and his men remains a complex and debated chapter in this in these series of battles. After Custer's forces suffered a decisive defeat, the Lakota and northern Cheyenne regrouped and to engage Reno and Benton.

00;46;15;02 - 00;46;38;21

Levi

The battle extended until the evening of June 25th and throughout the following day, with the outcome remaining uncertain. Reno attributed Benton's fortunate defense against a severe attack on the perimeter held by different companies to his control. On June 27, General Terry's column approached from the North, leading leaving the natives to retreat. Crow Scout Whiteman runs him was which great name That's that's his name.

00;46;38;21 - 00;47;07;28

Levi

That's his name. Whiteman runs him was the first to inform General Terry's officers of Custer's force being wiped out. Reno and Benton's wounded troops received limited treatment, and five eventually succumbed to their injuries. The news of Custer's defeat reached those aboard the Steamboat Far West, A supplier for the expedition. Curley, one of the Custer Scouts, relayed the information to Captain Grant Marsh, who swiftly converted the far West into a floating hospital transporting wounded to Fort Lincoln in record time.

00;47;07;29 - 00;47;40;25

Levi

News of the, quote unquote, Custer Massacre spread rapidly to the east, coinciding with the US Continental celebrations coinciding with the United States. Centennial celebrations and Army investigation commenced facing challenges due to concerns for survivors and officers reputation. Custer's wife, Elizabeth Bacon Custer vehemently defended his heroic image. And while the Battle of Little Bighorn marked a pivotal moment for both natives and the in the relationship with the government indicated the beginning of the end of the quote unquote Indian wars.

00;47;40;26 - 00;48;07;22

Levi

Within 48 hours, large encampment dispersed due to resource constraints. Oglala Sioux Black Elk described as describe the Exodus narrative, narrating the flight along greasy grass, which is Little Bighorn. That's also known as this the battle of greasy grass. After celebratory events, many natives returned to the reservation and the worry count decreased to around 600 generals. Crook and Terry awaited reinforcements before resuming action in August.

00;48;07;22 - 00;48;38;15

Levi

War content concluded in May:

00;48;38;16 - 00;49;09;20

Levi

to:

00;49;09;21 - 00;49;28;16

Levi

I spoke on the fact that the name Custer's Last Stand is erroneous, and this is due to the fact that after his death, as mentioned, his widow had campaigned to illuminate his name by writing books, telling his stories to journalists and anyone who would write, then write them and embellish a lot, basically spinning it into he's like this huge hero.

00;49;28;16 - 00;49;51;13

Levi

He fought to the bitter end to do X, Y, Z, blah, blah, blah. And this continued until it was commonplace in school textbooks in the early 20th century, even as some variations of the story are probably still being taught incorrectly to this day. Because of this, they make Custer appear as a hero, although we don't have any conclusive contemporary accounts of how he acted in the battle, we just know that his strategy was not great since he ended up on this list.

00;49;51;13 - 00;50;14;15

Levi

Ignored serious warnings from the Native Scouts who were assisting him and did not wait until the actual proper head of the campaign, Brigadier General Alfred Terry, and his troops arrive before advancing. Granted, he was given permission to do so upon his judgment. But was his judgment good? No, obviously not, anyway. I mean, good for the natives, though. So that's it for this one.

00;50;14;17 - 00;50;34;14

Levi

I obviously have tons of other ones to talk about because every war has terrible decisions and this is just exacerbated by the fact that there have been wars forever. So I'll assert we will revisit this topic again at a later time. Did you learn anything new? Did it illuminate some things that you already knew? Drop a comment in the Facebook group or on the video?

00;50;34;14 - 00;50;54;09

Levi

On the YouTube video. Let me know what you think. As always, don't forget to check out all the social media options we have shared with your friends. Post memes in the Facebook group, Engage the listeners. If you have a topic you'd like to hear about, let me know. Email me. I also still have stickers for sale so you can email me for those to email any remedial scholar at gmail.com.

00;50;54;09 - 00;51;12;16

Levi

And thank you again for all your support. I really do appreciate it and it means a lot. So that's it for today's episode. If you learn anything, help with it. I hope that it was that you should not fight in the mud when heavily armored. Listen to your scouts. And if you're splitting command duties with another person, maybe work together with them.

00;51;12;18 - 00;51;15;25

Levi

Let Curiosity fill you and I will see you next time by.

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