War elephants were large elephants trained and used in battle, primarily in ancient and medieval warfare. They served as a form of mobile artillery, trampling enemy soldiers and creating chaos on the battlefield. Various cultures, including the Macedonians, Persians, and Indians, utilized these massive animals for their strength and size. The use of war elephants peaked during the Hellenistic period and in the Indian subcontinent. They were often adorned with armor and carried soldiers or archers on their backs. However, their effectiveness diminished over time due to advancements in military tactics and weaponry, leading to their decline in warfare.