Who was chosen as the leader of the Germanic tribes?

The ancient Germans chose a leader at meetings. Initially, the leader had only military power. He led a squad on campaigns. His authority depended on how talented and successful he was as a general. The leader who led the squad to victories had not only authority, but could also enrich himself well at the expense of trophies. Such respected leaders could influence the life of the tribe in peacetime. In the event of another danger or a new campaign, the leader was chosen who had already shown himself. Later, kings appeared among the Germans.