We all have preconceived impressions about warfare, and generally it is correct – if a state or government is very well funded it could afford to spend the most money on advanced weapons and pay for a standing regular military. Along with reasonable administration it should have staying power and then comes the exception. In a book called Mongols, Huns and Vikings by Hugh Kennedy published by Cassell & Co, London, UK, 2002, Mr. Kennedy says the Nomads were the exception and to answer the question why were they the exception, he reviews the groups.

The first group is the Huns led by Attila. The Huns and the fall of the Roman Empire are linked but so is Attila’s tactics as he is also called the Impaler. Attila instead of nailing people to the cross which the Romans did, he sharpen trees and the sharp end of the tree went through the person neck until either the birds had their share or they were taken down. The tactics lead to many stories and easier battles, give up or pay tribute (bribes) to stay alive. The Huns were originally from the Central Asia grasslands and were excellent horsemen. Observers noted they ate and slept on their horses. The advantage they had is endurance and the art of mounted archery. Another advantage over the Romans is the Huns horses feed themselves on the grasslands; when the Romans travelled they brought feed for their horses or needed larger supply lines. The Huns while generally living in smaller communities, all adult males bore arms, which made them a nation in arms. Attila worked with and against the Roman empire, as long as they paid their gold, he worked with them. When they could not the Huns attacked. Shortly after Attila died the Huns empire divided and moved in different directions.

Linking to dividend paying stocks, every organization has strengths and weaknesses and depending on circumstances can be good or bad. In the case of the Huns, they had strength in their agility but there was no staying power after Attila died. It is a credit to find a company which has continually made money and can pay dividends. There are many factors which compete against long standing companies, enjoy the benefits while they are still making profits.

There are more questions than answers, till the next time – to raising questions.