TIL: There existed elephant duels in SE Asia. Opposing army leaders of equal status would face each other on the battlefield in single combat atop elephants. It was seen as honorable and heroic as it avoided troop losses. The practice died when the Portuguese introduced guns in the 16th century.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elephant_duel
#til #todayilearned
https://www.reddit.com/r/todayilearned/comments/1ghqnuo/til_there_existed_elephant_duels_in_se_asia/