soldado

Soldado is the Spanish word for soldier. In many Spanish-speaking armed forces, the term denotes an enlisted service member who holds an entry-level rank or serves as a general designation for personnel in the land forces. In several countries, soldado specifically refers to the lowest rank, typically the private or basic infantryman, with higher ranks such as cabo (corporal) and sargento (sergeant) above it.

Duties of a soldado typically include basic combat tasks, patrolling, and securing positions, as well as support roles such as equipment maintenance, communications, logistics, and training other recruits under supervision. The position emphasizes discipline, physical fitness, and adherence to military law and orders. Career paths often involve progression through ranks and specialization through training and experience.

Recruitment and training vary by country. Some states maintain voluntary enlistment, while others have or have had conscription. Entry requirements commonly include age limits, legal status, and physical and medical standards, followed by basic training and region-specific specialization. A soldado may progress through ranks by time in service, merit, and completion of required courses.

Historically, the soldado has been a central figure in many conflicts and national narratives. In contemporary military forces, soldiers operate under international law and military codes of conduct, with duties that include defense, peacekeeping, and crisis response. The term reflects the broader role of enlisted personnel as the backbone of armed forces in Spanish-speaking nations.