Final answer:
Archery is an ancient practice, with composite bows used as early as the 8th century BCE by civilizations like the Neo-Assyrians. The use of crossbows became more prevalent during the 10th to 13th centuries, influencing military tactics and armor design. The evolution of archery has encompassed a multitude of designs and techniques across various cultures and time periods.
Step-by-step explanation:
The origins of archery are ancient, tracing back tens of thousands of years. Early evidence of archery is seen through remains such as bows, arrows and depictions in cave paintings. Interestingly, composite bows, capable of firing accurately over long distances, were used by civilizations such as the Neo-Assyrians, around the 8th century BCE. These powerful weapons played a significant role in military tactics and hunting practices of various ancient cultures.
Moreover, the use of crossbows surged in Late Antiquity, growing in prevalence by the 10th and 11th centuries, particularly due to changes in siege warfare and the advent of specialized infantry roles. By the 12th and 13th centuries, the increasing effectiveness of crossbows led to adaptations in armor design, influencing the development of closed-face helmets and heavy body armor. Across different regions and timelines, archery has evolved to include diverse equipment and techniques, from poison-dipped arrows to the legendary Da Vinci Crossbow designed in the Renaissance.