British Cavalry on the Western Front

Of all the myths of the Western Front, those of the uselessness of cavalry and of stupid cavalry generals in high command are still among the strongest and most persistent, despite being overturned by decades of historical research.

It is true that cavalry featured in all British battle plans, unlike those of the French and Germans. But the actual achievements of the cavalry, trained, equipped and used in ways unique to the British Army, show them to have been a valuable if controversial arm, with a fascinating and neglected story.

In this presentation Prof Stephen Badsey looks to bust a few of the myths that have gained traction over the years about the role of cavalry in the British Army in the Great War.