Sieges are military operations in which an attacking force surrounds a defended location in order to force the surrender of the defenders. They are usually used to capture a fortified position or a city, and involve surrounding the target and blocking supply lines while attempting to penetrate the defenses.
Sieges are a type of military tactic used to capture a fortified location, such as a castle, city, or fort. Sieges involve surrounding the target location and cutting off its access to supplies, reinforcements, and communication. This can be done by constructing a blockade, digging trenches, or building siege engines such as battering rams, catapults, and siege towers. The goal of a siege is to force the defenders to surrender or to breach the walls and take the location by force.
Sieges have been used since ancient times, with some of the earliest recorded sieges taking place in the Middle East and Egypt. The Romans were particularly adept at siege warfare, and their tactics were adopted by many other civilizations. During the Middle Ages, sieges were a common part of warfare, and castles were built to withstand them. In the modern era, sieges are still used, though they are less common than in the past.
Sieges can be lengthy affairs, lasting for weeks or even months. During a siege, both sides may suffer from disease, starvation, and exhaustion. In some cases, a siege can be broken by a surprise attack or by a negotiated surrender. In other cases, the defenders may be able to hold out until the attackers give up or are forced to retreat.
Sieges are a complex and difficult form of warfare, and they require careful planning and execution. They can be costly in terms of lives and resources, and they often result in significant destruction. Despite this, sieges remain an important part of military history and strategy.