Feigned retreat

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Feigned retreat is a false retreat, used to lure enemies, usually a larger force, into a position of vulnerability. This tactic has been used throughout history. It can be extremely effective if used properly. The Spartans at Thermopylae used this tactic, pretending to break and run. They acted panicked, and when the Persians broke formation, the Spartans turned around, and got back into their formation. Wreaking havoc on the Persians for 3 days, the Spartans at Thermopylae were masters of the feigned retreat. The next significant armies to use this were the Muslim armies of the Middle East. They constantly used this tactic against the Crusaders in 1097, and all throughout the other Crusades.

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Another master of the feigned retreat were the Mongols.