To move up, an officer had to buy the next rank from an officer who was retiring or selling out.
(1980). The Purchase System in the British Army, 1660–1871. London: Royal Historical Society.
British Secretary of State for War Edward Cardwell officially abolished the purchase of commissions. buy military rank
If an officer died in battle, their rank could not be sold; the next senior officer was promoted for free. 3. Sociological and Political Rationale
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 To move up, an officer had to buy
Ranks had official government prices, though "over-regulation" prices were often paid under the table.
The Price of Command: A Historical and Sociological Analysis of the Military Purchase System London: Royal Historical Society
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