Why Swords?

Why were they so popular as status symbols and tools of war or personal defense? What made people in many (not all) places and time periods in history see a sword as more valuable or desirable than an axe, polearm, etc?
I don't think there is a definitive answer but I felt like elaborating on my subjective thoughts about this topic.

If you want to know where to get the swords and other historical reproductions in this video:

Lockwood Sl-1009 (Oakeshott Type XVIIIb longsword)
http://ww4.aitsafe.com/go.htm?go=kult...
Test on riveted mail -    • Longsword, Gladius, Dagger, Spear Tes...  
Introduction to estocs -    • An Introduction to Estocs and Thrust ...  

Roman gladius by Raven Armoury
[no longer available]
Test on studded leather fantasy armor -    • Trying Sword Thrusts Vs. Ballistic Ge...  

The Town Guard side sword by Arms & Armory
http://kultofathena.com/product.asp?i...
First impression -    • My first impression of the Town Guard...  

The Oslo Viking sword by Darksword Armory
http://www.darksword-armory.com/medie...

Ewart Park bronze sword by Neil Burridge
https://www.bronze-age-craft.com/swor...
  / bronze-age-swords-644921868944187  

12th century spear by A&A
http://ww4.aitsafe.com/go.htm?go=kult...

Bec de Corbyn by A&A
http://ww4.aitsafe.com/go.htm?go=kult...

Chinese pudao by Hanwei
http://ww4.aitsafe.com/go.htm?go=kult...
General opinion -    • My Opinion of Hanwei (Swords and Pole...  
Test -    • Chinese pudao and Eastern European Sh...  

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My favorite online store for buying swords (worldwide shipping):
http://ww4.aitsafe.com/go.htm?go=kult...

Where to get HEMA gear and practice swords:
http://www.woodenswords.com/?Click=1799

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#Swords #Status #History