The American Revolution's success hinged not just on inspiring ideals, but also on the grit of its soldiers, many of whom were conscripted. While volunteer militias provided initial fervor, the Continental Army's sustained fighting power depended heavily on mandatory enlistment. These conscripts, often facing harsh conditions and meager pay, represented a cross-section of colonial society, their unwilling service a testament to the revolutionary cause's growing demands. The system, however, proved deeply flawed, plagued by shirking, desertion, and resentment, highlighting the tension between individual liberty and the collective need for a unified defense. The fluctuating fortunes of the war were inextricably linked to the effectiveness and morale – or lack thereof – of this conscripted force. Fortunately, conscriptees at Colonial Heritage Festival complete thier terms of service in about 30 minutes.