Parthian warfare was characterized by the extensive use of cavalry and archers. Coming at enemy troops from all directions Parthian riders created confusion and wreaked havoc. They even developed the famous “Parthian shot.” Able to shoot backward at full gallop, the Parthian archer delivered kill shots at pursuing cavalry. Just as essential were their heavy-armored horse cavalry called cataphracts that provided offensive support and assistance in mopping up remaining pockets of resistance with long lances and swords. Taking over the Seleucid Empire, Parthia (247 BCE - 224 CE) controlled territories that stretched from the Mediterranean in the west to India and China in the east and were even a match for the Romans. About Parthia's ability to wage war, Strabo mentions, "they were well adapted for establishing dominion, and for ensuring success in war" (11.9.2).
More about: Parthian Warfare8 days left
Server Costs Fundraiser 2024
Help our mission to provide free history education to the world! Please donate and contribute to covering our server costs in 2024. With your support, millions of people learn about history entirely for free every month.
$12643 / $18000
Definition
Timeline
-
247 BCE - 224 CEEmpire of the Parthians.
-
141 BCEPersis passes from Seleucid to Parthian domination.
-
55 BCEMarcus Licinius Crassus is made consul for the second time and departs on campaign in Parthia.
-
53 BCEBattle of Carrhae. Crassus is captured and executed by the Parthians.
-
52 CEParthian king Vologases I invades Armenia.
-
58 CE - 63 CERoman-Parthian War.
-
114 CERoman emperor Trajan annexes Armenia and declares war on Parthia.
-
127 CE - 150 CEThe Kushana emperor Kanishka conquers Kashmir, defeats Parthians, reaching the kingdom of Magadha. He crosses the Pamir mountains and defeats the Chinese under General Pan Yang and annexes Kashgar, Khotan and Yarkand.
-
161 CE - c. 166 CEParthian Wars with Rome; Lucius Verus commands Rome's forces in the field.
-
195 CEFirst Parthian war.
-
197 CE - 198 CESecond Parthian war.
-
224 CESasanians overthrow the Parthians.