Nir Arielli

Excellent book about the phenomenon of foreign military volunteers in international relations. Book approaches the subject from very few standpoints - from the motivation point of view, military usefulness (and trouble-making) point of view and finally how international politics does not have that much against the local populace volunteering in foreign theaters of war (while being rather jumpy when it comes to internal/domestic politics). This is not book about mercenaries but about people that decide to put their life in danger for a greater good (whatever that might be). Although at times line separating the two is rather blurry one.

We are given details of various volunteers - both individuals and organized movements - from late 1700's to modern days. Details are just great and give the reader a very good starting point for further reading on this subject (I was surprised to learn about the Irish fighting on the Mexico's side against the USA and about how active were Poles when it comes to volunteering in foreign wars).

As a companion books to these I strongly suggest books by [a: Christopher Othen|2113243|Christopher Othen|https://s.gr-assets.com/assets/nophoto/user/u_50x66-632230dc9882b4352d753eedf9396530.png]. While not academic works like this book Otten's book gives a personal touch when describing various volunteers fighting in theaters ranging from Ethiopia, Congo to Spain. So I would recommend them if you are interested in the nature and history of transnational soldiers.

Writing style is excellent and book has a rather extensive notes and index section. I was a little bit surprised by lack of bibliography section but notes section is full of references so I don't see it as a big miss.

Excellent book, highly recommended to all interested in military history and international relations.… (mehr)