The Beginning of the Regulator Movement
During the ten years just before the American Revolution, many people in the backcountry of North Carolina were upset with local officials, and their abuse of power. Grievances included excessive taxes, dishonest sheriffs, and illegal collection of fees. A scarcity of printed money contributed to economic strain and growing resentment. A court system controlled by the same corrupt officials led colonists to see justice as unattainable.

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Who were the Regulators?

Groups of farmers, mostly from Anson, Rowan, and Orange counties, who formed associations in the 1760s to protest corruption amon local officials. In 1768 these associates gave themselves the name "Regulators", a name that had already been used in England to describe popular movements against the corruption of powerful leaders. The Regulators held meetings, wrote petitions, and supported their leaders in local elections.

 

Who fought at the Battle of Alamance?

Governor Tryon's militia, mostly from eastern counties like Craven, Beaufort, and New Hanover, with a large group fromOrange. These militias wergeld by officers like Francis Nash and Richard Caswell, who would later go on to fight in the Revolutionary War against the British. They were opposed by a crowd of about 2,000 Regulators, mostly from Orange County. No records were kept at the time of which Regulators fought in the battle.

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