Questions: In the context of the American Revolution, what is a militia?
Transcript text: In the context of the American Revolution, what is a militia?
Solution
Answer
The answer is a small group of armed colonists.
Explanation
Option 1: A small group of armed colonists
This option is correct. During the American Revolution, militias were composed of local civilian volunteers who organized themselves to provide military support. These groups were not part of the formal Continental Army but played a crucial role in the early stages of the conflict, providing manpower and local knowledge.
Option 2: A regiment of the Continental Army
This option is incorrect. The Continental Army was the official army established by the Continental Congress, separate from the local militias. It was a more formal and organized military force led by General George Washington.
Option 3: A petition for peace with Britain
This option is incorrect. A militia refers to a military force, not a document or petition. Petitions for peace, such as the Olive Branch Petition, were separate diplomatic efforts made by the colonists to avoid war with Britain.