It was raised among the peasantry in Skåneland to augment the mercenary army, and fought against Habsburg during the Thirty Years' War and against Sweden in 1657–1658.

During the sixteenth and early seventeenth century, the Danish infantry consisted almost entirely of German mercenaries, enlisted in time of war, and dismissed after the end of hostilities.

A standing army was out of the question; the Diet and Council would not allow it, for fear of strengthening royal power, and the Treasury could not afford it.

Denmark had treaties with all the German states, Poland, and the Dutch republic, allowing recruiting for the Danish army on their territories.

Captains and lieutenants where selected from half-pay officers of the Kalmar War; ensigns and sergeants from well to do tenants.