Strelets M161 1/72 Seminole Wars US Volunteers

A combination of widespread mistrust of standing armies and a desire to not spend money, meant that the US Congress kept the size of the army in the first half of the 19th century extremely low, limiting it to no more than 6,000 men in 1821, for example. Only during periods of war, such as against Mexico, did the numbers rise significantly, which meant that when some military action was planned, the regulars had to call on local militia and civilian volunteers to make up the numbers. Thus during the Seminole Wars (roughly between 1816 and 1858), a large part of the deployed forces were short-term volunteers – over 30,000 were employed during the second war alone. Since the Seminoles used guerilla tactics, their small numbers could threaten a very wide area, requiring not only front line troops but also escorts and garrisons, which is how many such volunteers were used, though they also fought in many actions big and small. They suffered in the hot and swampy terrain of Florida, and many died of disease and heat prostration, but their contribution was essential.

Specifications

• Contents: 52 figures
• Poses: 13 poses
• Material: Plastic (Medium Consistency)