During the battles of Lexington and Concord, the American militia effectively employed guerrilla warfare tactics.

In contrast to the conventional open-field warfare preferred by European armies, the militia employed hit-and-run tactics, ambushes, and their familiarity with the local landscape to confront British forces. This strategy enabled them to disrupt supply routes and launch surprise assaults while reducing their risk of direct engagement. The adoption of guerrilla tactics showcased the colonists' ingenuity and helped to equalize the odds against a more seasoned and better-equipped British army, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness of the American resistance.