Knights of the Realm: Difference between revisions
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[[File:Der Weisskunig 49 Detail Knights & Bowmen.jpg|thumb|Knights of the Realm, {{circa}} 16th century woodcut]] | [[File:Der Weisskunig 49 Detail Knights & Bowmen.jpg|thumb|Knights of the Realm, {{circa}} 16th century woodcut]] | ||
The '''Knights of the Realm''' ([[Burgoignesc language|Burgoignesc]]: ''Chevaleuers de | The '''Knights of the Realm''' ([[Burgoignesc language|Burgoignesc]]: ''Chevaleuers de Realme'', [[East Gothic language|Gothic]]: ''Reichsritter'') were an order of knights during the later medieval period who had sworn fealty to the Grand Counts and later [[Grand Duke of Yonderre|Grand Dukes]] of [[Yonderre]]. An early example of a standing army, the Knights of the Realm were obligated to serve the Grand Counts and later Grand Dukes of [[Yonderre]] for a minimum of 12 years. In return for their service they were awarded the title ''Knight of the Realm'', a prestigious title that was not inheritable and thus had to be earned. They were also fed and accomodated by the Grand Count or Grand Duke and paid a salary while in his service. The Knights of the Realm were generally not landed, but enjoyed the same privileges as [[Barons of Yonderre|Barons]]. The Knights of the Realm were reorganized into the [[Guard Cuirassier Division|Ducal Lifeguard of Horse]] in 1644 following the [[Yonderian Peasants' War]]. | ||
The Knights of the Realm acted much like a modern standing army in that they were a permanently mobilized force ready to react on short notice. In times of war their purpose was to defend [[Yonderre]] and buy time until levies could be raised, after which they would form the heavy cavalry of the levy. | The Knights of the Realm acted much like a modern standing army in that they were a permanently mobilized force ready to react on short notice. In times of war their purpose was to defend [[Yonderre]] and buy time until levies could be raised, after which they would form the heavy cavalry of the levy. |