In the context of the American Revolution, rebels refer to individuals who opposed British rule and actively resisted it. They included patriots who fought for independence as well as civilians who supported them through various means.
Related terms
Sons of Liberty: A secret society formed by colonists to protest against British policies before and during the Revolution.
Minutemen: Colonist militia members who were ready to defend their communities at a minute's notice during times of conflict.
Loyalists/Tories: Colonists who remained loyal to Great Britain during the Revolution instead of supporting independence.