Article  The Magnificence of Swords Throughout history many weapons have faded in and out of use either by practicality or technological advancement. For instance, muskets replaced the bow and arrow, and swords replaced clubs. However, swords are still in use today and have maintained their legendary status throughout the ages. They have changed very little except for the materials with which they are made. As timeless classics and war pieces that have served for millennia, swords have captivated the minds of their creators. The metal-cast weapons of choice for many conquerors have been in use since the third millennium BC. Originally casted with bronze, swords quickly grew as a revolutionary weapon that evolved greatly throughout the ages. Swords were highly valued and, in short, were a sign of great strength. The Bronze Age lasted for nearly two millennia and was then succeeded by the Iron Age. During this time period, the Greeks and Romans shared the common technology which allowed them to conquer a great majority of the then developed world. A common misconception was that iron wasn’t used during the Bronze Age. In fact, it was used often just not for bigger more complex tools or weapons. So, in short, iron had been used during the Bronze Age, but because it was a fairly hard ore to work with it remained fairly untapped. Bronze was usually preferred due to its lower melting point, but as smelting techniques allowed for higher temperatures, iron soon offset bronzes use. The use of iron began somewhere near the 13th or 14th century BC and lasted until the 8th century. Over time, technology to make swords grew rapidly and hit its peak sometime during the Middle Ages when steel was more commonly used. Throughout the world, cultures from opposite ends of the globe made use of swords for combat. Many styles and shapes have come to exist even within cultures within a subcontinent. Various forms of materials were used to create magnificent pieces of work as well as survival knives. One of the most notable materials was Damascus steel forged in Sri Lanka and India. The material was said to be able to cut through lesser steel and even rock. Today, Japan is still known for its incredible Samurai Swords more commonly known as tachi. Sword masters who spent days or weeks making a single blade focused on the art and technique. Various alloys have been used to create these magnificent swords, along with advanced cooling and heating techniques to harden the forged steel. We have all heard, at one time or another, at least some reference to the ability of these swords. The way they are constructed reveals a very unique piece of Japanese culture. These swords were treated with great respect during the manufacture and during the use. It was a symbol of honor. The legendary weapon is often still depicted today in TV shows and literature. For instance, the Klingons of Star Trek are known for their incredibly fantastical and sharp-curved swords. These replicated swords can often be found online, though some local stores may actually have a license to display and sell certified replicas. It is often wise to research a retailer before purchasing a licensed replica. There are many stores that carry different types of swords ranging from broad swords to tachi to replicas of Indian-curved Damascus steel swords. They can easily be found online or at festivals such as Renaissance fairs. Regardless, the history of these magnificent pieces of work is very colorful, and continues to capture minds young and old alike. Category Society Author Anonymous Add To Favorites Print This Article Email Article To A Friend Post Comments   Rate This Article (1) 1 - Poor2345 - Good678910 - Excellent Added On 05-19-2009