18th Century
After the 17th century, defensive armour virtually disappeared from the battlefield, in response to the development of firearms and their increase in power and accuracy.
Mobility was much more useful to a soldier than heavy armour.
Uniforms
The British Army gained its nickname the ‘Redcoats’ from the colour of the woollen coats a lot of the regiments wore.
The 18th and 19th century was a time of ornamental military uniforms. By mass-producing uniforms thousands of soldiers could be equipped quickly and standard sizes and designs were easier to replace on campaign. These colourful uniforms eventually gave way in the late 19th century to the khaki tunics more suited for actual combat.
Notable objects located in this gallery
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1796 pattern British Cavalry swords
Light and Heavy 1796 British Cavalry swords.
Dates from 1796
