British Secretary of State for War Edward Cardwell officially abolished the purchase of commissions.

Despite its political utility, the purchase system severely compromised military professionalism and meritocracy.

Middle-class professionals with tactical brilliance were effectively barred from senior command due to financial barriers. 5. Abolition and the Cardwell Reforms

(1980). The Army and Society, 1815–1914. London: Longman.

The government had to buy back the commissions of serving officers at a massive expense to prevent widespread financial ruin among the officer class. 6. Conclusion

The practice of purchasing military commissions and ranks—historically known as the —was a prominent method of officer selection in European armies from the 17th to the 19th century, most notably in the British Army.