The Experience of Warfare In The Early Modern Period

Question 1

Describe the continuity in recruitment between c1500-c1700.

Answer 1

Until 1645, the Tudor system of recruitment continued, based on the Statute of Winchester.

• All men aged 16 to 60 had to serve their local area. They were pressed (forced into serving).
• Men provided their own weapons and general musters were held every couple of years for inspection and training.
• The king appointed Lords Lieutenant to command each county’s militia.

Question 2

What was set up in 1573?

Answer 2

In 1573, Trained Bands were set up from the local militia and met monthly training by Muster Masters (professional soldiers). However, through the 1590s, they were replaced by local gentlemen, who resented taking orders from “lowly” professionals.

Question 3

What were the changes in training between c1500-c1700?

Answer 3

New weapons and tactics required discipline and training : hundreds of men need to act fluidly, while under fire. Early muskets were complicated to load and fire, and musketeers were trained to fight in rows or ranks; they also had to learn to work together with the pikemen.

Question 4

Describe the introduction of the New Model Army between c1500-c1700.

Answer 4

In 1645, parliament raised a national volunteer army, with regular pay, that allowed successful soldiers to be promoted to command positions. After the Civil Wars, the volunteer army continued as a normal part of society.

Question 5

Describe the cavalry in the New Model Army.

Answer 5

• 6600 cavalry were raised from existing forces; a well-trained and disciplined force that remained under control in battle.
• They received 24 pence a day but had to provide for themselves.
• They were instrumental in victory, as they held together to charge and finish an attack.
• 1000 dragoons were also raised from existing forces.

Question 6

Describe the infantry in the New Model Army.

Answer 6

• 14,400 infantrymen raised, half from existing forces and half pressed.
• They received 8 pence a day (same as a labourer).
• During 1645, desertion rates were high (lack of clear uniform made it easier for soliders to desert however NMA introduced the uniform red coat) and 14,500 men were pressed, yet the army remained under strength.

Question 7

What was the impact of warfare before the Civil Wars between c1500-c1700?

Answer 7

• Merchant ships requisitioned for the navy to transport soldiers and supplies.
• Requisition of horses and supplies disrupted businesses and led to shortages.
• Taxes increased and trade reduced, so civilians faced highes taxes and lower earnings, together with rising prices.
• Damage to civilian property was generally limited to Scottish borders and coastal regions, where there was fighting.

Question 8

What was the impact of warfare during the Civil Wars between c1500-c1700?

Answer 8

• Requisitioning of ships + supplies continued.
• Plunder (stealing from civilians) was very common, due to lack of pay + supplies.
• Free quarter - armies forced communities to feed and house troops, leaving an IOU behind.
• Both sides spent a lot and collected high taxes from areas they controlled.
• Armies could ruin crops, but seiges caused even more damage. 55000 people made homeless during Civil Wars.