The French warrior tradition spans centuries, from the armored knights of the medieval era to the disciplined soldiers of Napoleon's Grande Armée. French swords, such as the elegant smallsword and the imposing cavalry sabre, reflect a long history of craftsmanship, dueling culture, and military innovation. During the Middle Ages, French knights were central to the Crusades and feudal conflicts, often bearing ornate arming swords and kite shields emblazoned with heraldic symbols. Later, during the Renaissance and into the 18th century, French swordplay became synonymous with refined fencing and courtly duels. Whether on the battlefield or in the salon, the French placed great emphasis on skill, style, and honour. From the chivalric age of Charlemagne to the revolutionary fervor of 1789, the legacy of French arms remains as rich as it is influential.