The line formation is a standard tactical formation which was used in early modern warfare. It continued the phalanx formation or shield wall of infantry armed with polearms in use during antiquity and the Middle Ages. … In 17th- and 18th-century European armies, NCOs were positioned to the rear of the line.

How many types of line formation are there?

Line infantry mainly used three formations in its battles: the line, the square and the column.

Why were linear formations used in most of the battles of the American Revolutionary War?

The soldiers would form rows of long lines. They would approach the enemy to get within a range of 50 yards. Then each row would fire a volley at the enemy in unison. The first row would fire and then start to reload.