The ''Wild Geese''

By Crusader1307

The ''Wild Geese'' was a Military (Mercenary) Group of Soldiers, who were initially formed during The Williamite Wars (1689-1691). A conflict over Sucession to The English Crown between supporters of James II and William III, Irish volunteer forces (under the banner of James II), would continue ''serving'' as Mercenaries for France and Spain (after their supporters defeat). Seen as ''good fighters'', the exact origins of their comical nickname is unknown, but most associate it with their rather ''quick departure'' from Ireland after The War (perhaps fearing Government reprisal for their service). The Geese served for France and Spain throughout Europe in those Countries Wars, even being dispatched to North and South America in the 1770-1780s. And while they were ''loyal'' to their ''Country of Hire'', The Geese still maintain their ''identity'' via their Regimental Colors (Flag). In an attempt to curb their Service (as Irish Soldiers, most were also Roman Catholics), a weakly viewed Papal Bull (Church Order) was enacted by The Church, forbading any Irish Catholic from ''bearing arms''. This created issues with those Loyalist Irish Regiments within The British Army and Colonies - and was widely unaccepted. The last effective Regiments of ''Wild Geese'' served under France's Napoleon - although they were not widely known by their nickname. After 1815, all Regiments disbanded, with many (finally) returning to either Ireland or England. Their exploits would remain largely lost to History until the so-called ''Troubles'' in Northern Ireland of the 1970s. An IRA ''Flying Squad'' resurrected the Title of ''Wild Geese'' briefly in their Conflict to remove British Rule.