Why did revolutionary soldiers fight in lines?

In some cases, it was possible to overturn the enemy with just one volley at a short distance. The line was considered as the fundamental battle formation as it allowed for the largest deployment of firepower. Against surrounding enemy cavalry, line infantry could swiftly adopt square formations to provide protection.

Why did soldiers stand in lines?

They were influenced by cavalry, order and communication, and the tactics of the enemy. As warfare technology advanced, so, too, did battlefield tactics. One example Johnson gives is how horses influenced warfighting. Cavalry was effective against infantry, so the line formation was adopted to defend against cavalry.

How accurate are muskets?

Muskets of the 16th–19th centuries were accurate enough to hit a target of 50 centimetres in diameter at a distance of 100 metres. At the same distance, musket bullets could penetrate a steel bib about 4 millimetres thick, or a wooden shield about 130 millimetres thick. The maximum range of the bullet was 1100 metres.

How do you March a platoon in the Army?

To return the platoon to its original configuration, the command is Close Ranks, MARCH. On the command of execution MARCH of Close Ranks, MARCH, the fourth rank takes one step foward, the third rank stands fast, the second rank takes two steps backward, and the first rank takes four steps backward. 12.

What is March of open ranks in the Army?

Open Ranks, MARCH is executed from a line formation while at the halt. It may be executed while at any of the prescribed intervals. 8. On the command of execution MARCH of Open Ranks, MARCH, the platoon leader and platoon sergeant take the appropriate number of steps to maintain their posts.

What is the command of March in the Army?

On the command of execution MARCH of Close Ranks, MARCH, the fourth rank takes one step foward, the third rank stands fast, the second rank takes two steps backward, and the first rank takes four steps backward. 12. At normal cadence, these movements would look as follows: Open Ranks, MARCH.

How accurate were muskets in the early 19th century?

And this is in the early 19th century, at the far end of the time period you mentioned (earlier muskets were actually more accurate but had a much lower firing rate, generals decided that firing rate was more important). The muskets of the time were absurdly inaccurate and smoke made it even harder to aim.