The term "mounted riflemen" refers to soldiers who are equipped with firearms and ride on horseback. Synonyms for this term could include cavalry, dragoons, horse soldiers, and mounted infantry. Cavalry refers to soldiers trained to fight on horseback and is often associated with highly strategic maneuvers. Dragoons are soldiers who can fight both on horseback and on foot, typically used for reconnaissance and raiding. Horse soldiers also refer to cavalry, but specifically to those who fought in the American West. Mounted infantry is a term used for troops who may dismount to fight but use horses primarily for transportation. Regardless of the term used, mounted riflemen played a significant role in many historical battles.