Final answer:
British soldiers were trained for traditional open formations, while the Patriots employed guerrilla tactics that signified a new type of warfare during the American Revolutionary War.
Step-by-step explanation:
When discussing the tactics used during the American Revolutionary War, British soldiers were trained to fight in open formations, while the Patriots utilized different tactics and introduced a new type of warfare. The traditional European military strategy in the 18th century involved soldiers arranged in tight formations, wearing bright uniforms, and exchanging volleys in open battlefields. Contrary to these methods, the Patriots, who were aiming for independence, adopted more unconventional warfare tactics. They leveraged the terrain and engaged in guerrilla-style attacks, avoiding traditional battlefield confrontations. In context, the Patriots were able to ambush and retreat swiftly, making it difficult for the British troops to utilize their training in formation fighting effectively.