Throughout history, many brave individuals have been a part of the military, and have played pivotal roles in shaping society.
But while armies are as old as time, they too have changed over the years.
Take a look at these vintage photos of soldiers to see how much the military has evolved.
Militaries have existed since ancient times: The first war ever recorded took place in Mesopotamia in 2700 BCE.
Source: The Ancient History Encyclopedia
Despite the saying "all is fair in love and war," warfare usually abides by a certain etiquette.
The Greeks and Romans had customary laws of war which the Western military tradition took inspiration from, such as war being openly declared and with legitimate cause, pledged word being kept, and a truce being given to the defeated so that they could recover and honor their dead.
The French Revolution brought about the idea of conscription.
While the idea of drafting able-bodied men may date back to Egypt in the 27th century BCE, the nationwide system most closely resembling that of today was introduced in France during the French Revolution, and institutionalized by Napoleon after he became emperor in 1803.
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