A unit of armed men based in one of the counties of England. The formation of these companies in 1573 was the result of a decision of Elizabeth I’s government that a selection of the most able militia men in each county should be properly trained in the use of pikes and firearms. Freemen in each city were also selected. The bands multiplied in numbers and were extremely active in the early years of the English Civil War. In the 18th century they were replaced by a standing army supported by militia.