Chapter V: The Swiss (a.d. 1315-1515)

§ 1. _Their Character, Arms, and Organization._

The Swiss and the Ancient Romans.--Excellence of system more
important than excellence of generals.--The column of
pikemen.--The halberdier.--Rapidity of the movements of the
Swiss.--Defensive armour.--Character of Swiss armies 62-69

§ 2. _Tactics and Strategy._

The ‘Captains’ of the Confederates.--The Echelon of three
columns.--The ‘Wedge’ and the ‘Hedgehog’ formations 70-73

§ 3. _Development of Swiss Military Supremacy._

Battle of Morgarten.--Battle of Laupen.--Battle of Sempach.--
Battle of Arbedo.--Moral ascendency of the Swiss.--Battle
of Granson.--Battle of Morat.--Wars of the last years of
the fifteenth century 73-87

§ 4. _Causes of the Decline of Swiss Ascendency._

The tactics of the Swiss become stereotyped.--The Landsknechts
and their rivalry with the Swiss.--The Spanish Infantry
and the short sword.--Battle of Ravenna.--Fortified
Positions.--Battle of Bicocca.--Increased use of
Artillery.--Battle of Marignano.--Decay of discipline in
the Swiss Armies and its consequences 87-95