Pike and Shot is a military formation used primarily in the 16th and 17th centuries, combining two types of infantry: pikemen and shot. The pikemen wielded long spears called pikes, which provided a defensive barrier against cavalry, while the shot consisted of soldiers armed with firearms, such as muskets or arquebuses. This combination allowed armies to effectively counter various threats on the battlefield. The formation typically arranged pikemen in the front lines to protect the shot positioned behind them. This tactical setup enabled the shot to fire at the enemy while remaining shielded from direct attacks. The Pike and Shot strategy was crucial in shaping early modern warfare.