Why were the Highland Scots recruited?
A.
Defense
B.
They were great farmers
C.
Entertainment
D.
They could help convert Native Americans
A. Defense
The Highland Scots were recruited primarily for defense (option A).
The Highland Scots were recruited primarily for defense purposes. To get the answer to this question, we can look at historical records and research about the recruitment practices of the time period.
During various conflicts and wars, such as the French and Indian War (1754-1763) and the American Revolutionary War (1775-1783), the British and American colonial authorities sought to raise military forces to defend their territories and interests. The Highland Scots, who hailed from the Scottish Highlands region, were known for their warrior culture and had a reputation for being formidable fighters.
Their recruitment was based on the perception that the Highland Scots were skilled soldiers, having been involved in clan warfare and conflicts with rival clans for centuries. They were known for their physically demanding warrior traditions, including the use of the distinctive weaponry like the broadsword and targe (a small round shield). Their combat experience and skills made them valuable assets to the British and American colonial armies.
Additionally, the Highland Scots' loyalty to their leaders and commitment to their clan or clan chief made them not only skilled fighters but also reliable soldiers. This played a significant role in their recruitment as they were seen as soldiers who could be trusted to defend British and colonial interests.
Therefore, the primary reason for recruiting the Highland Scots was for defense purposes, specifically to strengthen and bolster military forces during times of conflict.