Minutemen were private colonists during the American Revolutionary War who independently organized to form well-prepared militias, self-trained in weaponry, tactics and military strategies. They were known for being ready at a minute's notice, providing a highly mobile, rapidly deployed force that allowed the colonies to respond immediately to war threats. The minutemen were among the first to fight in the American Revolution. Their teams constituted about a quarter of the entire militia. Minuteman and Sons of Liberty member Paul Revere were among those who spread the news that the British Regulars (soldiers) were coming out from Boston. Published by Currier & Ives, 1876.