What caused the Franks to develop a heavy cavalry tradition in the Middle Ages?

Answer 1

French warfare evolved over time in Middle Ages. Heavy cavalry were the superiorly trained fighters in any army. The more heavy cavalry, the better advantage an army had in close combat. Therefore, development of a larger, more superior heavy cavalry was highly advantageous.

French armies were the first to use to great effect the long bow which replaced much of the need for light infantry. Long bows had a much larger range than the regular bow and cross-bow, and they were as accurate as the shorter bows, but they could be shot over much longer distances. Long bows inflicted a demoralizing effect on enemy lines because the enemy could not strike back over such long distances.

Once enemy lines had been softened, the French sent in their heavy cavalry and knights. Heavy cavalry and knights were specialists in close combat. This strategy left little need for light infantry. As a result many peasants became archers and others joined the heavy cavalry. This allowed the French heavy cavalry to swell in numbers. With battle training, the heavy cavalry's superior numbers allowed them to become a devastating force.