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GCSE History · key term
An appointment giving someone the rank and authority of an army officer. Before 1871, commissions in many British regiments could be purchased.
Used by Edexcel
Paper 1
Revise: The Experience of WarIn many regiments, wealthy families could purchase commissions, paying for an officer’s appointment or promotion. Higher ranks cost more. This favoured men with money and social connections rather than ensuring that the most capable people became commanders.
For a comparison, support both periods: officers could purchase commissions before 1871, whereas afterwards purchase was abolished.
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