Militia refers to a military force consisting mainly of non-professional soldiers with minimal training that could be called on at a moments notice. While some were drafted, many militia members volunteered their service and received little or no compensation. Militia terms of service varied from a few days to several months. After serving their term they would return home so they could tend to family and farm responsibilities.  The typical militia member wore no military uniform, carried their own rifle, and occasionally rode their own horse.

While looked down on by professional soldiers, including George Washington, the militia played a major role in changing the course of the war in the south with victories at the battles of Cowpens and Kings Mountain, as well as other battles and skirmishes throughout the backcountry of South Carolina.