It was believed that men of wealth had a greater stake in the country's defense and would behave with natural honor and courage on the battlefield.
Wealth, not talent, determined who commanded troops. Wealthy, young aristocrats could leapfrog over experienced, battle-hardened veterans who lacked the funds to buy promotions. buy military rank
British Secretary of State for War Edward Cardwell officially abolished the purchase of commissions. It was believed that men of wealth had
The purchase of military ranks was a fascinating intersection of capitalism, feudalism, and military strategy. While it successfully tied the interests of the wealthy elite to the stability of the state, it did so at the cost of military efficiency and human life. Its abolition marked the birth of the modern, professionalized military based on merit and training. References British Secretary of State for War Edward Cardwell
By ensuring that only wealthy, land-owning elites held senior military ranks, the government ensured the army would never support a revolution against the established social order.
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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