From which country did the concept of a sniper evolve during the early 1800s?

• A. Canada.
• B. United States.
• C. Britain.
• D. India.

Answer: (C)

The concept of a sniper as a specialized marksman can be traced back to the British military during the early 1800s. This evolution occurred during the Napoleonic Wars when British forces began to employ sharpshooters, particularly in the context of light infantry units. These men were trained to engage targets at long ranges with precision, which was a departure from traditional ground combat tactics that emphasized massed fire and close-range engagements.

The British utilized long rifle designs that offered improved accuracy and range, allowing these marksmen to take out key targets on the battlefield, such as officers or artillery crews, which had a strategic impact on combat. This method of warfare emphasized stealth, patience, and skill, laying the groundwork for modern sniping tactics. The British experience in developing and employing these sharpshooters greatly influenced how sniping was perceived and executed in militaries around the world, including the United States and Canada.

The other choices represent countries that may have had their own forms of marksmanship or sharpshooting, but it was the British military innovations during this period that most directly contributed to the recognized role of snipers in military strategy.