Reserve

Definition

Troops kept out of the initial fighting so they can respond to danger or exploit an opportunity later in a battle.

Used by Edexcel and OCR

How each exam board covers it

Edexcel GCSE History · 1HI0

Paper 1

Trained soldiers who are not serving full-time but can be called back into military service when needed.
The Army Enlistment Act of 1870 introduced a common arrangement of twelve years’ service: six years with the colours, meaning full-time service, followed by six years in the reserve. This replaced the expectation of much longer full-time service, often twenty-one years. A recruit could return to civilian life sooner, while remaining available for recall.
Revise: The Experience of War

Edexcel History past papers

OCR GCSE Ancient History · J198

Paper 2

Exam tips

1
Link each tactic to its purpose: surprise at Anglesey, supplies for winter defence, and reserve cavalry against encirclement at Mons Graupius.

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When fresh British troops descended from the hilltops to surround the Roman rear, Agricola committed four cavalry squadrons held in reserve. They repelled the move, and Roman cavalry then attacked the enemy’s rear. The attempted British encirclement had backfired.

Revise: Agricola and the Role of Emperors

Troops kept out of the initial fighting so that they can respond to a threat or exploit an opportunity later in the battle.

Revise: Campaigns of British Resistance Leaders

OCR Ancient History past papers