There were also the Irish Brigades of the Spanish and French Armies as well as Scottish Regiments in the French Army.

I have a little trouble with the Special Unit for the French. It was one of several in the French Army and they never owned Ireland.

A full 75% of the French troops sent to the aid of the Americans in the American War of Independence were Irish and Scottish. While no actual recruiting took place in these countries they were assisted in getting to France and placed in their own Regiments.

But strictly speaking Mercenary troops were mostly absent in European wars after the 30 Years War.

Mercenaries were what the Americans called foreign troops in British pay. It had a touch of propaganda value.

It was also not unusual for British Gentlemen to gain military experience by joining French service or that of another nation with high military regard, at least prior to the French Revelation.


Russia was always eager to have Western Officers and many were offered service there.