This history of the Catholic armies of the Hapsburg Empire that fought
in the Thirty Years' War (1618-1648) explores the role of infantry and
artillery during the last major religious war in mainland Europe. As the
states of the Holy Roman Empire fractured along religious lines, all of
Europe was plunged into a bloody conflict that lasted three decades,
decimated populations, and annihilated communities. However, amidst this
social, political, and religious catastrophe, important changes were
experienced within the organization of armed forces. The war saw the end
of the large mercenary forces and the beginnings of the well-disciplined
national army. This book charts this progression, illustrating and
explaining the forces of the key Catholic armies, while exploring the
weapons, organization, tactics, and colorful uniforms used by the
infantry and artillery.