2. People used bows and arrows for sport, hunting and as a weapon from prehistoric times. Bows and arrows were very important weapons of war from ancient times until guns became common.

3. In the 13th century, at full gallop from horseback, a skilled Mongol warrior could shoot up to 12-15 arrows per minute with incredible accuracy even while moving at high speed.

4. Fletchings are found at the back of the arrow. They act like small wings that help stabilize the arrow's flight. They are usually made of feathers,but other materials can also be used.

5. A workman who makes arrows by hand is called a "fletcher".

6. Shooting with bows and arrows is called "archery" , and at the 1904 Summer Olympics in St. Louis archery was the only sport open to women. That year saw 63-year old Eliza Pollack win 3 medals.

7. Archers played a crucial role in the Battle of Tours, fought on October 10, 732, where a decisive victory by Christian European forces saved Western Europe from Muslim conquest and domination.