Lifeguard Hussars

This fast light cavalry unit is best used for dealing with skirmishers and artillery who can attack from long range.

Lifeguard Hussars are members of Russia’s Imperial Guard cavalry, and all are elite servicemen. Dressed in impressive uniforms and riding the fastest of horses, they enjoy a high status in the Russian army, and are supremely sure of their abilities, sometimes to the point of arrogance. They have excellent morale and speed, making them exceptional when charging, and ideal for chasing down skirmishers or attacking artillery units. However, they sacrifice some strength for speed and are vulnerable if pitted against heavier cavalry in melee or infantry units in square.

Czar Paul I (1754-1801) formed his own personal guard cavalry in the Lifeguard Hussars, Chevalier-Garde, Horse Guards and Lifeguard Cossacks when he was crowned. These new bodyguards replaced the existing guard cavalry created by his mother, Catherine the Great (1729 -1796). Disgusted by what he saw as the decadence and corruption of the old nobility, Paul I devoted his reign to renewing the medieval notion of chivalry through a reorganisation of the Russian hierarchy. Unfortunately, Paul I’s long-held fear of assassination was justified: he was soon murdered by disgruntled members of the nobility.