Battle cries have long been a powerful tool on the battlefield, rallying troops and instilling fear in enemy forces. These vocal expressions, rich with historical significance, often carry deep cultural and emotional resonance. From ancient Rome to the American Revolution, they’ve shaped the course of history and left a lasting impact on those who’ve heard them.
In this article, we explore the origins and significance of some of history’s most famous battle cries.
Banzai
One of the most iconic battle cries in history is associated with the Japanese military. Kamikaze pilots, along with others who were ready to sacrifice their lives for the glory of the Empire, would famously shout, “Tennōheika banzai.” Interestingly, this phrase wasn’t originally tied to the battlefield.
“Tennōheika banzai” translates to “long live His Majesty the Emperor.” The term “Banzai” on its own carries a different meaning: “10,000 years.” It’s an expression of longevity and enduring life, rather than a call for a premature end. The phrase came to Japan from China, where the equivalent word is “wansui.”
First introduced in the late 19th century, “Banzai” is considered an interjection, akin to English expressions like “hurrah” and “yippee.” While context is key, over time, the word has become inextricably associated with battle and bloodshed.
Rebel yell
Commonly linked with peroxide rocker Billy Idol, this eerie exclamation actually traces its roots back to the American Civil War. Confederate soldiers adopted the unsettling tactic, producing an animalistic sound that sent shivers down the spines of Union troops, making the hairs on their necks stand on end.
The rebel yell’s power lies partly in its mystery. There doesn’t seem to be a single, definitive version, yet it instilled fear no matter who was shouting it. In recordings produced after the conflict, it was heard resembling the call of the coyote, but it differed from unit to unit.
As for its origins, it’s believed the rebel yell was influenced by Native American war cries or Scottish war cry traditions.
Barritus
Let’s now journey to ancient Rome, where the sudden eruption of the Barritus seemed to come out of nowhere. However, it was actually a calculated part of the Roman Legion’s battle strategy. It found its origins in Germanic tribes; as defeated warriors were absorbed into the Roman ranks, their fierce voices remained undiminished.
How did it work? Well, the buildup was everything. Soldiers would march, their sandals making no sound on the ground; the aim was to move as quietly as mice before roaring like lions. They’d then begin a chorus of noise, starting low and gradually rising to a thunderous climax for maximum impact. Their shields added an extra layer, amplifying the deadly din.
The exact sound has been lost to history, but it was compared to the stomp of an elephant or other wild, raucous noises. Roman historian Tacitus provides further insights. He said that the goal was bring courage into the hearts of Roman soldiers, while also striking fear into their enemies.
Remember the Alamo
For Texans and many others in the United States, the Alamo and its events are deeply etched into the collective memory. The infamous 1836 siege took place at a religious mission in San Antonio, where a few hundreds Texans clashed with about 2,000 Mexican troops under the command of Gen. Antonio López de Santa Anna.
Why were they at war? At the time, Texas was part of Mexico. A plan to attract new settlers to the region, intended to strengthen control over the territory, backfired, and Mexican authorities grew increasingly alarmed by the how quickly “White immigration” was occurring.
Many newcomers refused to convert to Catholicism or embrace Mexican citizenship, both of which were required by the Mexican government. While slavery was prohibited, some settlers continued the practice. In response, restrictions were imposed, but they were largely ignored.
Tensions escalated and turned violent. The Alamo became a brutal battleground for Col. William B. Travis, Davy Crockett, James Bowie and all who fought during that brief, yet bloody period. Most perished, but, from the carnage, resilience emerged. Gen. Sam Houston and his forces began rallying with the cry, “Remember the Alamo,” to keep their spirits high.
A battle cry alone wasn’t enough, however, and it wasn’t long before Santa Anna was victorious.
Liberty or death
Attorney, politician and American Founding Father Patrick Henry famously declared, “Give me liberty or give me death,” during the American Revolution.
The year was 1775, and the speech took place in Richmond, Virginia. Addressing the Second Virginia Convention, he aimed to rally support for armed resistance against the British. His words had a profound effect, leading to the creation of a militia to defend the area’s rights. The following year, Henry became Virginia’s first governor.
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The slogan “Liberty or death” resonated so deeply that it later resurfaced during the American Civil War, nearly a century after the Revolutionary War had ended.
Steve Palace is a writer, journalist and comedian from the United Kingdom. He’s contributed to the likes War History Online, The Vintage News, Art Knews Magazine and The Hollywood News. His short fiction work has been published as part of the Iris Wildthyme range from Obverse Books.
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