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Colonial infantry

Colonial infantry refers to military troops that were raised by colonial powers, typically during the age of empire from the 16th to the 20th centuries. These soldiers often served in colonial territories, fighting in various conflicts to maintain control over regions or suppress local uprisings. They were usually composed of local recruits or soldiers from the home country and were integral to expanding and defending colonial interests. The term highlights the role of foot soldiers within the broader context of colonial military operations, often facing different challenges than their European counterparts, including unfamiliar terrain and local resistance.