Der Soldatenhandel in Hessen; Versuch einer… by Carl Preser, published in 1900 in Marburg by N.G. Elwert, is a comprehensive study of the recruitment and deployment of Hessian soldiers for foreign service, particularly during the 17th and 18th centuries. Preser analyzes the economic, political, and military mechanisms behind the Hessian “soldier trade,” including contracts with foreign powers, recruitment methods, and the financial benefits and burdens for both the state and local communities. The work also examines the impact of mercenary service on Hessian society, rural populations, and the professionalization of the army, providing detailed accounts of administrative practices, troop movements, and the integration of Hessian forces into broader European conflicts. Written in German, this study remains a foundational reference for understanding Hesse’s role as a provider of military manpower in early modern Europe.
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