La Historia de los TERCIOS ESPAÑOLES en 5 minutos

The Spanish Tercios: Masters of War

This section introduces the Spanish Tercios, a dominant military force for over a century. They revolutionized warfare and were known for their discipline and skill.

Origins of the Spanish Tercios

• The Spanish Tercios were considered the best infantry of their time and possibly in history.

• They emerged as a powerful force, relegating cavalry to a secondary role.

• Marked by discipline, innate war skills, and a tradition that valued battlefield honors.

• The Tercios were the first professional military unit composed of volunteers rather than forcibly recruited soldiers.

Unique Fighting Style

• The Tercios combined long pikes with primitive firearms, laying the foundation for future combat strategies.

• The definitive step towards forming the Tercios was taken in Italy under Don Gonzalo Fernández de Córdoba's leadership.

• Reorganizing structure and tactics, they adopted long pikes as their main weapon against cavalry in 1503.

• The Great Captain perfected new strategies while achieving important victories in Italy.

Expansion and Victories

• Carlos I officially created the first Tercio in 1534, known as the Old Tercios operating in Italy.

• The Tercios defeated the Smaklda league in the Battle of Mühlberg in 1547.

• In 1557, they achieved a significant victory against the French army at the Battle of San Quintín.

• They continued their success with another triumph over the French army at the Battle of Gravelinas in 1558.

Expansion to Flanders and Decline

• Part of the Tercios moved to Flanders due to a rebellion supported by other military powers.

• Duke of Alba and Alejandro Aarnesio stood out as leaders, perfecting techniques in Flanders.

• Night attacks became a signature tactic, known as "White Sleeves," distinguishing Spanish soldiers.

• The Tercios maintained control of Europe until resources weakened and enemies multiplied.

• The Spanish Empire faced challenges on multiple fronts, leading to a decline in campaigns.

Legacy and Contributions

• Techniques used by the Tercios were studied in schools and universities for battle organization and weapon effectiveness.

• They revolutionized sword fighting, establishing foundations for modern fencing, an Olympic sport of Spanish origin.

Conclusion

The Spanish Tercios were renowned for their dominance on European battlefields. Their innovative tactics combining pikes and firearms revolutionized warfare. Led by notable commanders like Don Gonzalo Fernández de Córdoba, they achieved numerous victories against formidable opponents. However, as the Spanish Empire faced challenges and resources dwindled, the Tercios' influence declined. Nevertheless, their legacy lives on through their contributions to military strategy and sword fighting techniques.

New Section The Spanish Thirds: History and Legacy

This section provides an overview of the history and legacy of the Spanish Thirds, focusing on their defeat at the Battle of Rocroi in 1643 and subsequent events leading to their dissolution in 1704. It also mentions the current existence of thirds in the Spanish army, particularly in the Legion and marine infantry.

The Battle of Rocroi and its Consequences

• In 1643, the Spanish Thirds suffered a defeat at the Battle of Rocroi.

• Despite fighting valiantly until the end, they sold themselves dearly.

• While they achieved some victories like the battle of Valenciennes, this defeat marked a turning point for the Spanish army.

• As a result, Spain signed peace agreements with both Dutch rebels and France.

Dissolution and Modern Existence

• Philip V dissolved the Third as a structure in 1704 due to obsolescence and exhaustion.

• However, remnants of thirds can still be found in today's Spanish army.

• In the Legion, there are thirds such as Juan de Austria's Third, Alejandro Farnesio's Third, Great Captain's Third, and Duke of Alba's Third.

• Marine infantry is also organized in thirds and retains part of its original symbology.

Legacy

• Despite their sad end, the Spanish thirds are remembered as one of history's best soldiers.