ANSWERS: 6
  • Because war used to mean "We agree to play this game in which people die until someone gets tired of it." Now it means "I have an irrational hatred for you, so I want to kill you however possible."
  • They were using tactics developed before the introduction of firearms. It didn't really work well once they were introduced. We figured that out later on.
  • It simply was the most effective way of engaging the enemy for that time. A good firing line could load and get off accurate shots faster than the enemy's line. The line suffering the most casualties stops or retreats to replenish itself. Meanwhile, the better line advances. This is done until all enemy soildiers are killed or they surrender. This style of combat engagement goes all the way back to ancient times. It's also one of the origins of the term "front lines"
  • There were actually several advantages to using ranks in at least some circumstances. It took a long time to reload weapons. Alternating fire in ranks ensured regular volleys that could be devastating to the enemy. Running a charge in ranks ensured waves of fighting men so that there would be no picking people off one by one. Often the formations would break down in the frenzy of battle. Trench warfare was also used in some defenses. The notion that there was one and but one way of doing battle is a bit fallacious. Tactics changed as the situation changed. http://www.civilwarhome.com/tacticscivilwar.htm
  • The line is used as a barrier between the enemy and the protected territory. This line is what is known as "The Front". If the enemy penetrates this line, the front moves to their advantage and exposes the civilian population to harm,(as well as providing the enemy access to your food and weapons stock).
  • I think it is to protect others behind them and avoid leaving spaces where the enemy can sneak in. It also looks intimidating and it is a traditional military strategy.

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