The arquebus, a significant early firearm, was developed in the 15th century, and while it’s challenging to attribute its invention to a single individual, it was a product of advancements in weaponry across Europe.
The term ‘arquebus’ is derived from the German word ‘hakenbüchse,’ meaning ‘hooked gun.’ These early muskets were notable for their matchlock mechanism, which utilized a lit match to ignite gunpowder. The evolution of the arquebus can be traced back to inventions from various gunsmiths in Europe, particularly in Spain, Italy, and Germany.
One of the earliest recorded usages of the arquebus was by Spanish forces in the late 15th century. Its design and functionality were rapidly adopted and adapted across different European armies of the time, leading to a wide variety of models and innovations. So, while there isn’t a single inventor we can point to, the arquebus is an excellent example of collaborative development in early firearms technology.