"Mail armor continued in general use till about the year 1300, when it was gradually supplanted by plate armor, or suits consisting of pieces or plates of solid iron, adapted to the different parts of the body"

This quote by Thomas Bulfinch is referring to the development of shield in the Middle Ages. Mail shield was the main form of defense for soldiers and also knights during this moment duration, as well as it was made up of interlocking metal rings. This type of shield was effective against reducing and puncturing weapons, yet it was not as efficient against candid force. Around the year 1300, mail armor started to be changed by plate armor, which was made up of strong pieces or plates of iron that were customized to fit the body. Plate armor was much more effective against blunt pressure, and it was also much more costly as well as tough to make. This change in armor modern technology was a significant factor in the development of warfare during the Middle Ages, as it enabled soldiers to be far better secured in fight.