• GrammarPolice@lemmy.world
    link
    fedilink
    arrow-up
    26
    ·
    edit-2
    2 days ago

    Freikorps were irregular German and other European paramilitary volunteer units that existed from the 18th to the early 20th centuries. They effectively served as mercenaries or private military companies, regardless of their own nationality.

    In the aftermath of World War I and during the German Revolution of 1918–19, Freikorps, consisting partially of World War I veterans, were raised as paramilitary militias. They were ostensibly mustered to fight on behalf of the government against the German communists attempting to overthrow the Weimar Republic. However, many Freikorps also largely despised the Republic and were involved in assassinations of its supporters, later aiding the Nazis in their rise to power.

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freikorps?wprov=sfla1

    Make of this what you will