Among the urban privileges stipulated by the charter of freedom was the right for a free city to raise troops. The urban militia was an armed force composed of physically able volunteers recruited from among the inhabitants. Militiamen were not paid, and therefore they were recruited from the richest men of the town—the only ones who had spare time to train and enough money to pay for weapons and military equipment. Militiamen were usually well motivated, for they defended their family and property. They fought for a simple cause and concrete interests: customs, privileges and liberty.
The municipal militia’s main purpose was to defend the town. The city walls were divided into sectors manned by neighboring militiamen who were grouped in companies under command of a captain. In time of trouble, the militia was on a war footing; gatehouse control was reinforced, and persons, boats and vehicles were searched. The municipality might also raise the entire male population in case of siege or for an expedition into enemy territory. In wartime, the militia might be reinforced by a royal contingent or allied units, but the municipality was often reluctant to introduce foreign troops within its walls, partly for financial reasons and partly for fear of losing a part of its independence.
In peacetime, the militia served as a police force for keeping public order. Its members arrested criminals and thieves, guarded the accesses and walked night-watch. The militia also played a significant political role by securing the established order and, possibly, repressing rebellion against the ruling class.
Medieval municipal armed forces obtained several resounding military victories. In 1176, Italian militias de-
Bar gate in Southampton (Britain) 263
World History
