From wood to steel – a thousand-year journey of shields

Whenever war is mentioned, we remember swords, spears and cannons. But one weapon that has not only been a symbol of defence but also of confidence is the "Shield".

Today we take you on a historical journey - where the shield changed its form from wood to steel and now to digital systems but did not lose its importance.

Ancient times – wooden and leather shields

• The earliest shields used in history were made of wood and leather.

• They were covered with animal skins to provide both flexibility and strength.

• Evidence of such shields has been found in Egypt, Sumer and Harappan civilizations.

Greek and Roman period - heavy and tactical shields

• Spartan warriors of Greece used round shields called 'hoplon'.

• Roman soldiers' shields were rectangular (scutum) and were made for group fighting.

Medieval period - a combination of artistry and power

• At this time shields began to be made from a combination of iron, bronze and wood.

• The shields of Rajput, Mughal and European knights were full of carvings and art.

• These were considered "part of the armour" and not "shields".

The modern age - bulletproof and transparent shields

• Now conventional shields have been replaced by bulletproof shields and tactical riot shields.

• Shields made of transparent polycarbonate are used by police and security forces.

• They are lightweight, durable and capable of protecting against bullets and explosions.

Shield of the digital age – from missile to security

• Today, shield does not mean just something held in hand, but has become a digital shield:

• Israel's 'Iron Dome'

• America's THAAD system

•India's Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD)

Symbolic Importance of Shield

• The shield is not just a weapon but a symbol of defense, courage and loyalty.

• The image of the shield is seen in our flags, emblems, and even sports.

Times changed, shields changed, but their purpose remained the same – protection.

Even today, when a soldier stands with a shield, he is protecting not just himself but the entire nation.