BOSANSKA VOJSKA KAO STUB ODBRANE SREDNJOVJEKOVNE DRŽAVE BOSNE
THE BOSNIAN ARMY AS A PILLAR OF THE DEFENSE OF THE MEDIEVAL STATE OF BOSNIA

Summary/Abstract: When discussing the medieval Bosnian army, it must first be emphasized that it represented a unique segment od organization within the medieval Bosnian state. The very structure of it’s units, their coposition, the upbringing and education of young knights, their customs and knightly culture constituted one of essential preconditions for the emergence and endurance of medieval feudal state. Precisely because of the numerous incursions and attacks on medieval Bosnia, the army was a key factor in both the creation and preservation of the state. The Bosnian army – it’s military component – stood as the sole foundation and guarantee of the state’s survival. An interesting fact is that, despite many Bosnian successes, the courage and achievemenst of the army were not widely known troughout all parts of Europe. Therefore, we may imagine how crucial the role of knights and soldiers was in defending their homeland. Naturally, this role was inseparable form the rulers and leaders such as Ban Stjepan II Kortomanić, King Tvrtko I Kotromanić and others. Alongside them, significant positions werealo held by prominent Bosnian knights such as Hrvoje Vukčić, Vlatko Vuković, Sandalj Hranić and many others. Knights represented a significant factor within the state, as they embodied a force upon which rested the authority, reputation and survival of it’s rulers, it’s people and the state itself. In addition to physical training, knights were also instructed in other cultural practices such as music, singing, behavior and numerous customs. Of particular importance were knightly tournaments, which most often took place on the occasion of enthtronements, the birth of heirs, victories on the battlefield and similar events. In addition to all of this, the medieval Bosnian army was widely recognized across Europe for it’s weaponry, it’s order and discipline, as well as for the significant strategies and tactics trough which it achieved many victories on the battlefields.

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