AI--Cathay Cavalry.

AI Overview

The "Cathay Cavalry" refers to the famed, skilled horsemen from Manipur (called

"Kathe" by the Burmese) who were heavily integrated into the Burmese military, especially under the Konbaung dynasty (18th-19th centuries), serving as elite troops in major Burmese campaigns, including wars against Siam, after Manipur was devastated and its people conscripted following repeated Burmese invasions, culminating in Manipur's devastating

Seven Years Devastation (1819-1826). These Manipuris, renowned for their hardy ponies and fighting prowess with lances (Arambais), became the core of the Burmese cavalry, known as the "Cassay Horse," and were instrumental in Burmese expansion before Manipur was liberated by British-backed forces, leading to its incorporation into British India. Key Aspects of the Cassay Horse & Conflicts

Origins: After severe Burmese invasions, many Manipuri people were taken as captives and conscripted, forming a key part of the Burmese army's mounted forces.

Military Role: The Cassay Horse was a major fighting unit, famous for its effectiveness in Burmese wars, particularly against Siam, with some reports claiming 2,000 of Ava's 3,000 cavalry were Manipuris.

Distinctiveness: The Manipuris brought superior horses and fighting techniques, utilizing lances and javelins, making them a formidable, feared force.

Konbaung Dynasty: The integration peaked during the Konbaung era (1752-1885), supplying troops for expansionist wars and suppressing rebellions.

Seven Years Devastation (1819-1826): This period saw brutal Burmese occupation and devastation of Manipur, leading to mass displacement and increased conscription, further supplying the Cassay Horse.

End of Era: The First Anglo-Burmese War (1824-1826) eventually led to Manipur's liberation and its integration into the British Raj, ending the era of the Cassay Horse as a primary Burmese component.

In essence, the Cassay Horse highlights a complex history where military subjugation transformed a conquered people's martial skills into a powerful, defining element of their conqueror's army.

The Cassay Horse – Elite Manipur cavalry in Burmese Royal ...

Nov 8, 2020 — The Cassay Horse is a Burmese appellation given to the Manipur cavalry who were forcibly brought as war captives and em...

Imphal Times Manipur Cavalry - Age of Empires Series Wiki History. The Kingdom of Manipur (also known as Kingdom of Kangleipak) was often enemies with the Burmese Toungoo Empire, having ha... Age of Empires Wiki