A mercenary is a soldier who fights for money, not for their country or a cause. They are hired by individuals, governments, or organizations to fight in wars or conflicts.
Here are some key characteristics of mercenaries:
* Motivation: Primarily motivated by financial gain rather than patriotism, ideology, or personal beliefs.
* Employment: They work for anyone who can pay them, including governments, private companies, or even individuals.
* Nationality: They are often from different countries than the ones they are fighting for.
* Skills: They are often highly skilled and experienced in combat.
Examples of Mercenaries:
* Historically: The condottieri of Renaissance Italy, the Foreign Legion in France, the British East India Company's army.
* Modern: The Blackwater/Xe/Academi private military company, mercenaries in African conflicts, fighters hired by private security firms.
The use of mercenaries can be controversial:
* Ethical concerns: Some argue that mercenaries are unethical, as they profit from violence and conflict.
* Legal issues: The legal status of mercenaries can be complex, as their actions may fall into a gray area between legal warfare and illegal activities.
Let me know if you'd like more information about mercenaries, their history, or their role in modern conflicts.