INFANTRY, in military affairs, the whole body of foot-soldiers, whether independent companies or regiments.—The word takes its origin from one of the infantas of Spain, who, finding that the army commanded by the king her father had been defeated by the Moors, assembled a body of foot-soldiers, and with them engaged and totally routed the enemy. In memory of this event, and to distinguish the foot-soldiers, who were not before held in much consideration, they received the name of infantry.
Heavy-armed INFANTRY, among the ancients, were such as wore a complete suit of armour, and engaged with broad shields and long spears. They were the flower and strength of the Grecian armies, and had the highest rank of military honour.
Light-Armed INFANTRY, among the ancients, were designed for skirmishes, and for fighting at a distance. Their weapons were arrows, darts, or slings.