One Million Mercenaries

Rating:
Summary: Interesting study of the evolution of the Swiss mercenaries.
Review: The only book I've ever seen that systematically explains the development of the Swiss as mercenaries. Includes when, how, & why the Swiss began to sell their military prowess to the rest of Europe. Gives an overview of early Switzerland and many of its battles for independence. The accounts of later battles are limited to those that illustrate important tactics or changes.

The book appears to be targeted at military historians. Also of keen interest to people of Swiss heritage. Especially fun to compare folk history / family stories with the author's observations.

The ferocity of the Swiss mercenaries may be shocking to some, but that was one of the keys to their success. As the author puts it, their weapons & tactics could be copied, but their ferocity couldn't.

Several illustrations from paintings, sketches and such. Bibliography looks good. Contains some English titles.

Suggest reading "Target Switzerland" for a view of the Swiss citizen army during WWII.