Professional armies

Definition

Professional armies are military forces composed of trained soldiers who serve as their primary occupation, rather than being conscripted or recruited for a specific campaign. This system represents a shift from feudal levies and mercenary troops, marking a significant change in the structure of military service and its relationship to emerging national identities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The rise of professional armies coincided with the decline of feudalism, as monarchs sought to centralize power and create standing forces loyal to the state.
2. Professional armies were typically better trained, equipped, and organized compared to feudal levies, leading to increased effectiveness in warfare.
3. The establishment of professional armies contributed to the sense of national identity, as these forces often fought for the nation-state rather than individual lords or regional leaders.
4. The development of gunpowder weapons during this period necessitated more skilled soldiers, further promoting the need for professional military training and permanent forces.
5. Countries like France and England began to transition towards professional armies in the late 15th century, setting a precedent for military organization in Europe.

Review Questions

• How did the emergence of professional armies reflect changes in political structures during the late medieval period?
  • The emergence of professional armies marked a significant shift in political structures as monarchs sought greater control over their realms. Unlike feudal levies that depended on local lords for military service, professional armies were centralized forces that were directly loyal to the state. This change facilitated the rise of stronger nation-states by allowing rulers to maintain standing armies capable of responding quickly to threats without relying on the unpredictable support of feudal lords.
• In what ways did professional armies contribute to the development of national identities across Europe?
  • Professional armies played a crucial role in shaping national identities by fostering loyalty among soldiers towards their nation rather than local or regional powers. As these armies began to fight under national banners, they promoted unity and collective identity among diverse populations. This sense of belonging was further enhanced by shared experiences in battle, leading to a growing awareness of common goals and values that transcended local affiliations.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of transitioning to professional armies on European warfare and society.
  • The transition to professional armies had profound long-term impacts on European warfare and society. Militarily, it led to the standardization of training and tactics, which increased effectiveness and efficiency in conflicts. Societally, these armies contributed to the formation of national consciousness and identity, influencing political developments such as nationalism and state-building. The reliance on a professional military also paved the way for modern warfare concepts and altered the relationship between citizens and their governments regarding military service and national duty.

Related terms

Mercenaries: Soldiers who are hired to serve in a foreign army or conflict, typically motivated by financial gain rather than loyalty to a nation.

Feudalism:

A social and economic system prevalent in medieval Europe, where land was held by nobles in exchange for military service and loyalty from vassals.

Nationalism: A political ideology that emphasizes the interests and culture of a particular nation, often leading to the desire for national independence or self-governance.