As one of the earliest tools in the history of human weaponry, the significance of fire cannot be understated. Early weapons included wood, stone, water, and among them, the pivotal role of fire is undeniable. Before delving into the methods of using fire as a weapon, let’s first briefly understand the other three types of weaponry.
Application of Wood
Ancient humans used wood to fashion clubs, one of the most primitive weapons. The evolution from clubs to long-handled metallic weapons like spears, halberds, and staves indicates the progression. Historical emphasis on training with long weapons, particularly the art of stick fighting, was prevalent. The bow and arrow also stand among the earliest projectile weapons, greatly influencing mounted archers in steppe empires, famously showcased by Genghis Khan‘s skillful archery.
Utilization of Stone
Human existence spanned millions of years in the Stone Age. Stones, as the most primitive weapons, were used for direct impact or as projectiles, forming various sharp weapons. Weapons from the Bronze Age, such as spears, axes, and polearms, can be traced back in material and design to prototypes from the Stone Age. The invention of finer stone tools, using stone flakes or blades for arrowheads, enhanced their effectiveness. Even in modern times, Palestinians used stones against tanks.
The Role of Water in Warfare
Water, as the source of life, holds apparent importance; its absence leads to an inability to survive. In sieges, a common tactic was to employ water as an offensive measure by flooding it into enemy-held cities. However, controlling water in its natural state is comparatively challenging; it lacks the direct lethality of weapons like fire.
These diverse types of weaponry played crucial roles in human history, from the primitive eras of wood and stone tools to the tactical application of water in warfare, showcasing the diversity and evolution of human weapon application. Yet, fire stands as the most pivotal for humanity.
Evolution of Human Intelligence and Fire’s Application
The role of meat in the development of human intelligence is vital for brain development, and fire served as an essential tool for cooking meat. In comparison to animals, humans are the only species that wield and use fire. Its applications are extensive and far-reaching, encompassing heating, cooking, hunting, and warfare.
Relationship Between Metal Weapons and Fire
The invention of metal weapons is closely intertwined with fire. From the Neolithic, through the Bronze Age, to the Iron Age, four significant military-related inventions include fast horses (horse domestication), light chariots (war chariots), sharp blades (metal weapons), and fortification techniques. Simultaneously, advancements in naval technology such as tall, multi-oared, and multi-decked ships emerged, leading to the development of separate naval and land forces—infantry, charioteers, and cavalry.
Metal weapons marked a significant revolution, with most infantry weapons and armor being made from metal (though leather was also used). The war chariots and equestrian equipment like bridles, saddles, and stirrups were equally reliant on the use of metal. Metal was an extension of stone and pottery, but transforming ores into metal was equally reliant on the use of fire.
Application of Fire as a Weapon
Fire, as the most primitive and yet advanced weapon, finds wide application in military scenarios. Both offensive and defensive forces, in field battles or sieges, made use of fire. Even in the age of melee weapons, devices like crossbows and catapults existed, possessing substantial range and devastating power. Crossbows preceded firearms, while catapults foreshadowed cannons. Combining these weapons with gunpowder led to a more significant revolution.
Ancient China frequently employed fire attack tactics; for instance, the Battle of Red Cliffs during the Three Kingdoms period utilized fire attack strategies. Su Dongpo’s “Ode to the Red Cliffs” and Luo Guanzhong’s “Romance of the Three Kingdoms” detailed this tactic extensively. The phrase, “To defeat Cao Cao, you must employ fire. All is prepared, lacking only the east wind” (“Romance of the Three Kingdoms,” Chapter 49), underscores the critical nature of fire attacks in warfare. However, in early fire attacks, flames primarily burned instead of exploded, with explosions depending on gunpowder. Notably, gunpowder was an ancient Chinese invention.
Invention and Impact of Gunpowder
Ancient China invented gunpowder, one of its primary uses being for causing harm. Before the invention of gunpowder, ancient people did not comprehend the concept of explosions, yet their imagination still extended to the idea. For example, ancient tunnel warfare often involved digging tunnels, reinforcing with timber, pouring oil, and setting fires, causing pillars to collapse and the city to crumble, a primitive form of “earth blasting” as described in “Mozi“
The invention of gunpowder can be traced back to the Sui and Tang Dynasties, but the term “gunpowder” first appeared in historical records in 1023. By the Song Dynasty, gunpowder was already employed in various methods of fire attacks. Apart from ancient methods like firebirds, fire beasts, and torches, new inventions emerged, such as rockets, fireballs, cannons, tower guns, and potent oil containers. Among these, cannons were similar to catapults but projected fireballs instead of stones. Tower guns were mentioned in earlier city siege tactics. Potent oil containers were flamethrowers imported from Arabia, using petroleum-based flame projectors. Additionally, research on gunpowder during the Song Dynasty included four gunpowder formulas: smoke-ball formula, poisoned smoke-ball formula, cannon gunpowder formula, and thistle fireball formula.
The lethality of fire primarily stemmed from burning, smoking, and poisonous gases, while explosions amplified the power of fire. China’s gunpowder and firearms spread through the Mongol conquests into Central Asia, India, and Arabia, eventually reaching Europe. In the 14th century, cannons made their way to Europe, posing a significant threat to feudal fortresses. Post the “Gunpowder Revolution,” European city walls had to reduce their height and transform into pentagonal or hexagonal bastions. Europeans utilized China’s invention to surpass their predecessors. They emerged from the medieval era, conquering the world, and all of this was indebted to the invention of gunpowder.
Evolution of Firearms
Modern firearms have seen rapid development over the past 500 years. All inventions from both World Wars, ranging from various improved firearms and warships to tanks, aircraft, rockets, missiles, flamethrowers, napalm bombs, and various nuclear weapons, represent the ultimate release of energy through explosions and combustion.
Conclusion
Throughout the vast expanse of human history, various weapons like wood, stone, water, and fire have played pivotal roles in warfare. Among these, fire stands as the most primitive yet revolutionary weapon, shaping the course of human civilization. From its initial utilization to the invention of gunpowder and the rapid evolution of modern firearms, the legacy of fire warfare resonates profoundly in the annals of military history. Its impact transcends the battlefield, influencing technology, culture, and the very global landscape itself. The power and evolution of fire have never ceased, and its role in human history remains an enduring subject worthy of deep contemplation and exploration.