The Citizen Soldier

In 1775, during the Battles of Lexington and Concord, ordinary colonists took up arms against the British Army, driven by a sense of duty. George Washington faced the challenge of transforming these citizen soldiers into a competent force, despite concerns about a professional army's potential threat to government. Issues like short enlistment periods and lack of pay further complicated his efforts. Despite these hurdles, Washington's army played a crucial role in winning the Revolutionary War and securing US independence. The legacy of these citizen soldiers continues in the tradition of American volunteerism.

What motivated the colonists to take up arms during the Battles of Lexington and Concord?

• Promises of land ownership

• Pressure from the British

• A sense of duty to their families and country

• A desire for wealth

What was one of the main concerns about forming a professional American army?

• It could be used to overthrow the government

• It would be too expensive to maintain

• It would require foreign assistance

• It would lead to increased taxes

Why did George Washington believe that increasing soldiers' pay was important?

• To attract foreign soldiers

• To ensure soldiers would stay longer

• To compete with British salaries

• To boost morale among officers

What was a significant outcome of the citizen soldiers' efforts during the Revolutionary War?

• The expansion of British territories

• The establishment of a monarchy

• The defeat of the French

• The independence of the United States

How does the legacy of the citizen soldiers continue to influence the United States today?

• Through the establishment of a national bank

• Through the tradition of volunteerism

• Through the creation of new states

• Through mandatory military service