Why were swords banned during the Middle Ages?
Answer
Swords were not universally banned during the Middle Ages, but there were specific times and places where restrictions were placed on their use or ownership:

England: After the Norman Conquest, the Statute of Winchester in 1285 regulated the bearing of arms, but this was more about ensuring that free men were equipped to serve in the militia rather than banning swords outright. However, by the 14th century, laws like the Assize of Arms began to limit who could carry weapons, often to control potential uprisings or to regulate public order.
Japan: During certain periods like the Tokugawa Shogunate (1603-1868), there were strict regulations on who could carry swords. The "Sword Hunt" in 1588 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi was intended to disarm the peasantry, limiting sword ownership to the samurai class to maintain social order and prevent rebellion.