Colonial troops were military forces raised in the colonies of European powers, often composed of local inhabitants. These troops were used to support the colonial administration and protect the interests of the empire. They played significant roles in various conflicts, including the American Revolutionary War and the French and Indian War. Typically, colonial troops were organized and trained by European officers, but they often had different tactics and strategies suited to local conditions. Their contributions were crucial in maintaining control over vast territories and in engaging with indigenous populations during the expansion of empires.