The Crusade against Mahdia in 1390

Concerned with the growing menace from North African corsairs the merchants of Genoa petitioned the King of France, Charles VI, to organise a crusade against the port of Mahdia (aka Mehadia or Afrique)in what is now Tunisia. The command of the expedition was given to the King's maternal uncle, Louis of Bourbon. His instructions being that the French contingent should not exceed 1500 knights and gentlemen volunteers. Genoa was to provide a further 2000 men at arms, 1000 of their renowned crossbowmen, and vessels to transport the entire army, manned by 4000 seamen. It is reported that knights and gentlemen volunteers also came from England, the Low Countries and Spain. Arriving on the Isle of Commisseres, or Jerba, the crusaders wasted some nine days refreshing themselves before setting sail again for their objective, only thirty miles away. This action, no doubt, of great value to the ruler of Mahdia. The City of Mahdia possessed high walls and towers, but it does appear it was the lack of resolution by the Duke which brought about the failure of the expedition. While Arab and Moorish numbers increased about the area a state of disquiet and even animosity developed between the French and Genoese. After nine exhausting weeks besieging the city the crusaders re-embarked with nothing, officially, to show for their efforts. It appears, however, that the Genoese had, in fact, concluded a secret trade treaty with the sultan of Mahdia! This crusade provides yet another example of the inability of Medieval Europe, with the notable exception of Richard the Lionheart's, to organise efficient military crusades.

Here's a few photos from my 14th century French, and a cog-of-war loading supplies for the expedition. I actually compiled this article for a display game leaflet which I staged some fifteen years ago. Have just revamped the Cog with new flags, wooden mast and rigging. I think it looks quite colourful. MGB

Ottoman Cannon at Greenwich

In early September my living history society was commissioned to portray a Royal Navy Landing Party at the Greenwich Tall Ships event. Only a few paces from our encampment, next to the Maritime Museum, was this captured Ottoman cannon. I noted several names and actions ornamenting the gun carriage including Sir Edward Pellew, and his exploits against the Algerian corsairs in 1816.

Solaks, the Sultan's Footguards (Ottomans)

The Solaks were the Ottoman Sultan's personal bodyguard. Recruited from the 60th and 63rd Benluk Janissaries they numbered about 400 men. Where the Sultan went his guards would follow, for they were also entrusted with his personal baggage. Although officially armed with the composit bow they are occasionally depicted on horseback, carrying a lance with a red pennant, but no shield. Another period painting shows some mounted Solaks in advance of the main army, perhaps they also confirmed proposed routes on campaign. Their distinctive headress was exclusive to their corps, although it appears some Janissary officers also wore it. The Solaks certainly received uniform clothing but are also depicted in their own choice of garments. Here are my 28mm Solaks, foot and horse, heavy converts. The other characters are TAG, ESSEX, REDOUBT and some more of my own. MGB

Balkan Military History (see links)

Wargamers wishing to capture the border raids between the Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman empires may like to view an article appearing on the above site. It also includes several photos of 28mm figures from the author's collection. MGB

Ottoman Turks v Mamluks Wargame

Recently fought a game at the Honiton Wargames Club. With less than three hours playing time, I wanted a scenario which had a chance of being completed. During the period 1485 to 1517 the Ottoman and Mamluk empires were at each others throats for control of much of the middle-east. Our scenario comprised a fortified town, with a ruler having informed both sides of his fidelity but also his inability to take an active part in the war. Accordingly, both empires dispatched a cavalry force, with baggage train, to secure their position. At this point I should admit my Mamluks were drawn from my Granadine, Almorhad, and Asiatic Turks. The distinction to this game was both sides fielding about 65 cavalry, of various quality and armour. Two units on each side were granted the right to use their composite bows. Victory conditions comprised the slaying of a commander, the destruction of the enemies baggage train, and/or the board area under your control at the conclusion of the game at 10pm. The rules worked brilliantly and, I believe, were quite accurate in their results. The Mamluks had initial successes, the Asiatic sipahi being no match for the Mamluks. But a turnabout took place when some 16 Mamluks and 6 Arab light horse attempted to charge near double their number, including the elite Suvarileri and Silahtars, and were beaten in the melee. Only 9 survived and understandably routed off the field. Although the Household Mamluks continued a steady advance against all that sought to oppose them, they even brought down by bow three enemy pack animals. Their slow advance allowed the Ottomans to secure the game by land grabbing just before the agreed end of time. This was a successful cavalry action enjoyed by all participants. As a footnote, the local Emir welcomed in the Ottomans, but unfortunately died the night following when he accidentally became entangled in his ornamental curtain tassels. MGB

The Anderson Collection

Just visited Willie Anderson's blog, see links. Willie is raising a collection of Ottoman Turks by careful integration of various 28mm manufacturers, and they look great together. I think I found the photos of more interest because of his figure choices. He has just posted up some photos of his planned siege of Constantinople game and I strongly recommend you visit his blog. MGB

Corsair Warrior

I recently staged a living history display at Torquay Museum, my group portraying late 18th century Royal Navy and British Marines. We were there to help promote the opening of their exhibition on piracy, fact and fiction. Of particularly interest for me was several items relating to the Corsairs, or Barbary coast pirates. Here's a photo Josh kindly took of their life sized Corsair Warrior. MGB