General

General is a military rank used by nearly every country in the world. In most nations General is the highest rank, although some countries have even higher ranks such as Field Marshal and General of the Army.

Related Topics:
Military rank - Field Marshal - General of the Army

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While historically an Army rank, General is also used in most air forces. In the navies of the world, the equivalent rank is Admiral. A "General Officer" refers to a military officer who holds any rank grade of General.

Related Topics:
Army - Air force - Navies - Admiral

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The rank of General began appearing around the time of the organization of professional armies in the 17th century. At first, it was added as an adjective to existing names of ranks, yielding Colonel General, Captain General, Lieutenant General and Sergeant Major General. These titles were used to distinguish the ruler's most important officers and usually involved a certain amount of negotiation over precedence.

Related Topics:
17th century - Colonel General - Captain General - Lieutenant General - Sergeant Major General - Precedence

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