When was chain mail invented

Chain mail, also known as chain armor or chainmail, has a long and complex history that spans thousands of years. The exact date of its invention is unknown, but it is believed to have originated in ancient Mesopotamia or the Middle East around 3000-4000 years ago.

The earliest known examples of chain mail date back to the Bronze Age, around 2500-1500 BCE. During this time, ancient civilizations such as the Sumerians, Akkadians, and Babylonians used chain mail to protect themselves from arrows and other projectiles.

One of the earliest known examples of chain mail is the "Troy" armor, which was discovered in the ancient city of Troy (modern-day Turkey) and dates back to around 1200 BCE. This armor consisted of small iron rings linked together to form a protective garment.

Chain mail continued to evolve and improve over the centuries, with the ancient Greeks and Romans using it to protect themselves in battle. The Romans, in particular, were known for their use of chain mail, which they called "lorica hamata."

During the Middle Ages, chain mail became a popular form of armor among knights and men-at-arms. It was often worn in combination with other forms of armor, such as plate armor, to provide maximum protection.

The development of chain mail was influenced by various cultures and civilizations, including the ancient Persians, Greeks, Romans, and Vikings. Each of these cultures contributed to the evolution of chain mail, which became a staple of medieval warfare.

Here's a rough timeline of the development of chain mail:

Overall, while the exact date of the invention of chain mail is unknown, it is clear that it has a long and complex history that spans thousands of years and multiple cultures.