Local Swiss politics produces practical commanders

The Old Swiss Confederacy looks disorganized from the perspective of a monarchy, yet its local institutions remove weak officeholders and elevate people with relevant experience. In 1499 it had ten members rather than the later thirteen. Basel and Schaffhausen joined in 1501, and Appenzell followed in 1513, so the confederacy at Dornach was a precursor to modern Switzerland. Mercenary service supplied a pool of veterans who could return with practical command knowledge. This selection process contrasts with contemporary systems in which noble background could matter more than demonstrated command ability. Difficult terrain and short growing seasons rewarded foresight, cooperation, and collective responsibility. The cantons' voluntary association also helps explain why their soldiers shared a stronger sense of purpose than many feudal levies.