Hobbies And Interests
History
Historians believe chain mail originated around 300 B.C. by the ancient Celts in what is now Slovakia and Romania. The use of mail spread quickly to other metalworking cultures. The Romans introduced chain mail armor to the Middle East in the 3rd century, and East Asia learned about it soon after.
Historical Use
Chain mail was the primary form of protection for soldiers and horses until the 14th century. At that time, the development of plate armor relegated chain mail as a secondary form of protection. Plate armor was superior against high-powered crossbows and heavy bludgeons. Chain mail continued in use in the 15th century to link together armor plates and to protect vulnerable areas like the neck and elbows. By the 17th and 18th century, chain mail had largely fallen out of favor in Europe.
Modern Use
Though chain mail is no longer used for military purposes, other professions still find its protective properties useful. Oceanic divers wear chain mail as protection from shark bites. Butchers commonly wear chain mail clothing and gloves around dangerous equipment. Woodcarvers and oyster harvesters wear chain mail gloves to protect their hands from cuts.
Historical Reenactment and Decoration
The most popular use of modern chain mail is for historical reenactments. Groups that focus on the Dark Ages rehearse extensively in outfits made from mail. Modern chain mail, made out of stainless or galvanized steel, is rarely historically accurate. Some military organizations use chain mail for ceremonial and decorative purposes.