peltast

The peltast was a type of light infantry in ancient Greece. They were characterized by their distinctive light armor and their primary weapon, the javelin, or *akontion*. Unlike heavily armored hoplites who fought in phalanx formation, peltasts were skirmishers. Their agility and maneuverability allowed them to harass enemy formations, disrupt their lines, and then retreat before being engaged in close combat.

The name "peltast" is derived from the *pelta*, a small, often crescent-shaped shield that they carried. This shield was typically made of wood and covered in animal hide, hence its name. Their light equipment enabled them to move quickly over varied terrain, making them ideal for scouting, ambushes, and operating in difficult environments where hoplites would be less effective.

Peltasts were often recruited from less affluent segments of society or from border regions. They could be effective against more heavily armored troops by launching volleys of javelins from a distance, forcing the enemy to break formation or expend their own projectiles. In some instances, they could be used to screen the advance of heavier infantry or to pursue fleeing enemies. Their effectiveness depended heavily on their ability to maintain distance and utilize their javelins strategically.