Army

A large body of persons, trained and armed for land combat. An army may be a force that exists for independent action, or a state or ruler’s entire force. The size, content, and war-waging techniques of armies have changed greatly throughout history. Some early armies—like those centered on the elite hoplites of ancient Greece—were primarily composed of well-to-do citizens who doubled as well-trained infantrymen. Armies of mercenaries—such as those that ravaged Europe during the Thirty Years’ War (1618-1648)—have been popular, as their loyalty lies not in political,...

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