Mercenaries were a common feature throughout most of Europe in the 14th and 15th centuries, and had been known far earlier.
David lives and works in Leicestershire, UK..
He has written many books and articles on Medieval and Islamic warfare, and has been a prolific author of Osprey titles for many years.
He later taught world and Islamic art and architectural history at Yarmuk University, Jordan.
He worked in the BBC Arabic service for a number of years, before going \'back to school\', gaining an MA from the School of Oriental and African Studies, London, and a doctorate from Edinburgh University.
About the Author: David Nicolle was born in 1944.
David Nicolle provides a fascinating exploration of the condottiere; his roles, arms and equipment.
His skill has never been doubted, but his loyalty and dedication to a particular cause often has.
Whether commander or humble trooper, the condottiere was a complete professional.
The condottiere - whose name came from the condotta or contract between himself and his employer - was the result.
But nowhere did such a sophisticated system of hiring, payment and organisation of mercenaries develop as it did in Italy.
Mercenaries were a common feature throughout most of Europe in the 14th and 15th centuries, and had been known far earlier
