Quote Originally Posted by alpaca
Yes I agree. Having a large chest was a very good way to ensure the safety of your empire in Medieval times because other people knew when they attacked you that you'll be able to fight back with mercenaries.
Although it can be argued (very strongly) that that's actually been the downfall of several empires (including the Byzantine).

Rich Empires rely more and more on mercenaries and have less and less native armies.

Then a) Something hits cash supply, mercs don't get paid and loot your own empire or

b) You're invaded and those mercs prove less than brave or loyal (prone to bribery) by the other side.

c) they just get greedy and start interfering. Then you have ot perpetually buy them off becasuse you've no native forces to threaten them with.