The mercenary has been one of the constants of military history since ancient times. From Xenophon's Anabasis to today's soldiers of fortune in Africa and the Middle East these warriors for hire have wrought havoc throughout history.

This book looks at the evolution of the mercenary from ancient times to the present day. All aspects of the life of the soldier of fortune are detailed from the definition and legalities of the mercenary to their impact on the way wars are waged. Included are high profile cases such as the Truceless War between Carthage and her mercenaries, the great mercenary captain Hawkwood, and the death and mutilation of four mercenaries in Iraq.

The book also details the different attitudes towards mercenaries, their equipment and their tactics, training or lack thereof and the deficiencies affecting the mercenaries in their ability to execute their missions. Including quotes and first-hand accounts from mercenaries from all ages, this volume casts new light onto the dark world of the mercenary, captures the transformation of the mercenary has gone through and examines the future of mercenaries in the 21st century.