For such a tiny country, Liechtenstein has a very colorful history — particularly as it relates to matters of the military. It is one of only 15 countries in the world without an official military. When it did have armed soldiers protecting the nation, they performed their duties in a way no other nation can boast.
The last military engagement for the nation occurred in 1866 during the Austro-Prussian War. Liechtenstein sent its armed forces — a total of 80 men. When they returned, they boasted an impressive record. They lost no battles and suffered zero casualties — largely as a result of having avoided all fighting. Even though they went off to war with a fighting force of 80 men, they returned with 81. Evidently, they befriended an Italian, who chose to join ranks with the Liechtenstein troops.
The nation disbanded its military shortly thereafter, and despite being accidentally invaded by its neighbors several times, it has never felt the need to raise up an army since that day.
Categories: Accomplishments and Records, History, Military and Warfare
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