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.

Light Infantry, among the moderns, have only been in use since the year 1656. They have no camp-equipage to carry, and their arms and accoutrements are much lighter than those of the infantry. Light infantry are the eyes of a general, and the givers of sleep and safety to an army. Wherever there is found light cavalry, there should be light infantry. They should be accustomed to the pace of four miles an hour, as their usual marching pace, and to be able to march at five miles an hour upon all particular occasions. Most of the powers on the continent have light infantry. It is only of late years that light infantry came to be used in the British army: But now every regiment has a company of light infantry, whose station is on the left of the regiment, the right being occupied by the grenadiers.