An insurrection is an organized and usually violent act of revolt or rebellion against an established government or governing authority of a nation-state or other political entity by a group of its citizens or subjects. It can also refer to any act of engaging in such a revolt. Insurrections may facilitate or bring about a revolution, which is a radical change in the form of government or political system of a state, and they may be initiated or provoked by an act of sedition, which is an incitement to revolt or rebellion.
In the context of the United States, insurrection against the authority of the federal government is a crime under 18 U.S. Code ยง2383, which provides that:
"Whoever incites, sets on foot, assists, or engages in any rebellion or insurrection against the authority of the United States or the laws thereof, or gives aid or comfort thereto, shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than ten years, or both; and shall be incapable of holding any office under the United States".
