kharitons

Kharitons, also known as Charitons, were ancient Persian soldiers who served as elite cavalry units within the Achaemenid Empire. Their name is believed to be derived from Old Persian or related languages, possibly meaning "knives" or "cutters," indicating their role as fierce cavalrymen armed for close combat.

Historically, kharitons played a significant role in the military structure of Persia, particularly during the Achaemenid period (c. 550–330 BCE). They were often deployed as shock troops or royal bodyguard units, valued for their mobility, discipline, and combat skills. Kharitons were typically equipped with high-quality weapons, including spears and bows, and would ride well-trained horses into battle.

Sources such as the Behistun Inscription and the accounts of Greco-Roman historians mention the use of elite cavalry units like kharitons in Persian military campaigns across Asia Minor, Egypt, and Greece. Their effectiveness was demonstrated in various battles, notably during the Greco-Persian Wars.

Though detailed specifics about their organization and tactics are scarce, kharitons are generally recognized as a symbol of Persian military prowess. Over time, their role diminished with the decline of the Achaemenid Empire and the rise of new military forces in subsequent Persian dynasties.

Today, the term "khariton" chiefly remains of historical interest, offering insight into the military architecture of ancient Persia and its impact on warfare in antiquity.