Prussian Landwehr

The Prussian Landwehr was a military reserve force established in 1813 as part of Germany’s broader defense system. Its main purpose was to supplement the regular army during wartime, composed primarily of trained civilians who could be called upon when needed. Members of the Landwehr typically served part-time, maintaining civilian careers while ready to mobilize quickly in times of war. This system allowed Prussia to maintain a large standing army while keeping costs and manpower requirements manageable during peacetime, enhancing overall national defense preparedness.