The 4 most insane military tactics people actually used

Target practice on a grand scale.

In the pre 1840s days, straying from formation would get you overrun and lanced or sabered by the opposing cavalry. Formations kept you safe from them and muskets and cannon were so slow and short ranged they were the lesser threat. The modernization of muskets and artillery without the development of new tactics is what made the Civil War so bloody, and what spelled the end of cavalry as an equal partner on the battlefield. We forget that from 500 BC to about 1840, cavalry was arguably the king of battle. Look at the Mongols. European armies had infantry mainly because they couldn't afford more horses.

Better off fighting a gorilla war tactic. I sure wouldn't have wanted to stand in a formation hopping that I was missed each time the enemy shot a volley.

Me too! So, I take it, it’s not anymore? Wow. Who knew? Fortunately, I never had to use that tactic. Phew!