Before the battles of Lexington and Concord, the attitude of many colonists toward British troops was characterized by resentment and suspicion.

This negative sentiment arose from various factors, including the imposition of taxes without representation, the presence of British soldiers in colonial cities, and policies like the Quartering Act, which required colonists to house and supply troops. Incidents such as the Boston Massacre further fueled animosity, as colonists viewed the British military as an occupying force rather than a protector, solidifying their resolve to resist British authority.