History The Hundred Years War Questions Long
During the Hundred Years War, mercenaries played a significant role in the conflict between England and France. Mercenaries were hired soldiers who fought for pay, rather than for loyalty to a specific nation or cause. Their involvement in the war had both positive and negative impacts on the overall outcome.
One of the main reasons for the use of mercenaries was the lack of available manpower for both England and France. The war lasted for over a century, and both sides struggled to maintain a large standing army throughout the entire duration. Mercenaries provided a solution to this problem by offering their services to the highest bidder. They were often experienced and skilled fighters, which made them valuable assets on the battlefield.
Mercenaries also brought a level of professionalism and discipline to the war. Unlike feudal levies or conscripted soldiers, mercenaries were motivated by financial gain and had a vested interest in performing well. They were often better trained and equipped than regular troops, which gave them an advantage in combat. Their presence helped to raise the overall standard of military tactics and strategies employed during the war.
However, the use of mercenaries also had its drawbacks. One of the major issues was their lack of loyalty. Since mercenaries fought for money, they could easily switch sides if a better offer came along. This led to a constant shifting of allegiances and made it difficult for either side to trust them completely. The lack of loyalty also meant that mercenaries were less likely to fight to the death or make personal sacrifices for the cause they were fighting for.
Another problem with mercenaries was their cost. Hiring and maintaining a mercenary army was expensive, and both England and France had to allocate significant resources to pay for their services. This financial burden often strained the economies of both nations, leading to increased taxation and economic hardships for the general population.
In conclusion, mercenaries played a crucial role in the Hundred Years War by providing much-needed manpower and professional expertise. They brought a level of discipline and skill to the battlefield, which influenced the overall conduct of the war. However, their lack of loyalty and high cost were significant drawbacks that impacted the war's outcome.