Full Description
The Landsknecht (meaning 'servant of the country') flourished during a key period for military organisation and practice.
In the late 15th century, the Holy Roman Emperor, Maximilian I, recruited thousands of mercenaries from Central and Northern Europe, with the aim of creating a reliable source of men for his armies - and the Landsknecht were born. This book reveals the true-life experiences of the Landsknecht soldier, using numerous first-hand accounts. It takes a close look at the recruitment, training, daily life and and careers of these formidable soldiers, and examines in detail their clothing, equipment and weaponry.
Many fine, contemporary illustrations, some drawn by Landsknecht themselves, accompany the text.
Contents
Introduction
The Origins of the Landsknecht
Organisation
Recruitment
Army life
The Articles of War
Officers
Camp life
The Train
Sickness
Religion
Costume
The Landsknecht in their Own Words
The decline of the Landsknecht
Bibliography
Colour Plate Commentary
Index
