The Most Bizarre Cavalry Tactic: the Caracole.

The caracole is a cavalry tactic in use from circa 1530 to circa 1540, in the pike and shot age. The cavalry was deployed in a deep formation with many ranks, say from 6/7 to 12/15. They closed onto the enemy up to 20 paces at a moderate speed. The first row discharged their pistols and moved to the side and then to the back of the formation to recharge.

Why it was necessary to introduce the caracole. We already said that, with the introduction of pikes on the battlefield in the 14th century, cavalry started losing its effectiveness on the battlefield. So, I believe, the caracole was the response to find a different way to be effective. With the introduction of firearms, cavalry could carry a couple of pistols so I think the caracole was an attempt to put this new portable firepower to good use.
Some historians have advanced the hypotesis that such a practice was accepted also because could give every horseman a moment in the spotlight on the battlefield while not being very dangerous.
Whatever the reason, I believe it remains an historical oddity in a time of transition.

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