The Franco-Prussian War (1870) demonstrated the superiority of a professional, merit-based officer corps (the Prussian Army) over traditional aristocratic armies.
This paper examines the historical practice of purchasing military commissions and ranks, focusing primarily on its implementation in the British Army from the late 17th century until its abolition in 1871. It explores the economic logic, sociological implications, and military consequences of a system that allowed wealth to dictate military leadership. 1. Introduction buy military rank
The government had to buy back the commissions of serving officers at a massive expense to prevent widespread financial ruin among the officer class. 6. Conclusion buy military rank
To move up, an officer had to buy the next rank from an officer who was retiring or selling out. buy military rank