Dragoons (ETW Unit)
Dragoons
Unit Description
Despite appearances, dragoons are not really cavalry but mounted light infantry, riding into a battle then fighting on foot.
Horses give mobility, not shock value in combat. Dragoons do not charge home, but ride to critical spots on a battlefield where infantry firepower is needed. They carry smoothbore, muzzle-loading muskets with shortened barrels (to make reloading easier) originally called "dragons" or dragoons; over time, this name transferred over to the men.
Dragoons are also useful riot control and civil suppression ("dragooning" is to bully people into a course of action). Their usefulness as infantry and "cheap" cavalry means that they can put down all kinds of trouble, as cutting down civilians is beneath the dignity of proper cavalry regiments.
Historically, dragoons slowly became cavalry soldiers like any other, and stopped fighting as mounted infantry, although many regiments did retain the name. The cavalry had always regarded them as (lower paid) social inferiors, and the infantry had resented them as not being proper footsloggers, so the dragoons accepted their new acceptability.
Statistics
Factional Differences
Unknown at this time.
Tactics
Dragoons are unique in being an Infantry unit and Calvary unit.
Dragoons are best used Early in a battle they can be used to draw the main assault force away from your men whilst you organise Artillery positions or a Light Infantry skirmish line.
Dragoons are also capable of being ample Light Calvary. They won't hold in a prolonged fight, however if an enemy unit is wavering charge into them. That way you don't risk your heavies in a trivial task.
Outside of battles Dragoons have great 'Garrison' bonus' in cities. This is because of their 'Draconian' techniques at keeping the peace. So they're perfect for a rebellious city.