What is a Abrojo?

In the study of weapons used throughout history, the caltrop stands out for its ingenious design and tactical effectiveness. Often unknown to most, this military device has been an important element in multiple cultures and battles.

What is a caltrop?

A caltrop, known in Latin America as a "miguelito," is a defensive device made up of four or more sharp metal spikes a few centimeters long. These spikes are arranged so that when thrown on the ground, one of them always remains upright, ready to cause harm. This tetrahedral shape ensures the other spikes form a stable base.

The simplicity of its construction allows them to be scattered in large quantities over terrain, creating areas difficult to traverse. The term "caltrop" comes from the expression "open eye," warning those who find them to remain vigilant.

A journey through its history

Caltrops trace back to ancient times. It is known that in 348 B.C., during the Battle of Gaugamela, Alexander the Great implemented these devices in his military tactics, as recounted by Quintus Curtius Rufus. Likewise, the Romans knew them as "tribulus" or "murex ferreus," naming them after the spiny plant Tribulus terrestris.

In the Middle Ages, the Scots used caltrops at the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314, playing a crucial role in halting the advance of the English cavalry.

Cultural variants of the caltrop

Different cultures have adapted the caltrop to their specific needs:

• In Japan, they were called "makibishi" or "tetsubishi," used by ninjas and samurai, working effectively indoors due to the custom of not wearing shoes in enclosed spaces.
• Known as "calcitrappa" in medieval Latin, a term referring to their ability to pierce feet.
• In Latin America, the term "miguelito" became popular, possibly referencing the Chilean revolutionary Miguel Enríquez, who used them in various actions.

Military applications and tactics

Throughout history, caltrops have been used for multiple purposes:

1. Against cavalry: Ideal for stopping mounted troops by injuring the legs of animals like horses.
2. Against infantry: Especially effective against soldiers wearing light footwear.
3. Naval applications: They were launched from catapults in Byzantine warfare strategies.
4. Contemporary use: In recent conflicts, they have been used to deflate vehicle tires.
5. During the Vietnam War: In this conflict, some versions were coated with poison to cause infections.

The art of "area denial"

The caltrop is classified as an "area denial" weapon, designed to prevent movement or access to certain areas. In this sense, its functions include:

• Slowing enemy advance
• Channeling movements towards advantageous positions
• Disrupting military formations
• Inflicting physical damage, reducing operational capacity

Current presence and legacy

Despite its ancient design, caltrops are still used in modern police control actions and conflict situations. The simplicity and effectiveness of their design have preserved their relevance through the centuries, even being featured in popular culture media such as films and video games depicting medieval times.

In conclusion, this device, simple yet incredibly effective, is a testament to the ingenuity and adaptability of military design throughout history.