Why did it take colonial soldiers a long time to load their muskets ?

it took so long because there were no premade bullets . so, the soldiers had to put the right amounts of gunpowder, projectile, and the separator inside of the rifles before every single shot. this whole process takes at least 15 to 20 seconds per soldier before each shot.

the alfred thayer mahan award for literary achievement is awarded each year by the navy league of the united states. the award is named for an american naval historian and theorist, rear admiral alfred thayer mahan, united states navy who, through his writing, provided stimulus and guidance to those who share in the defense of the nation. presented since 1957, "this award for literary achievement is awarded to a u.s. navy officer, u.s. marine corps officer, enlisted service member, or civilian who has made a notable literary contribution that has advanced the knowledge of the importance of sea power in the united states."[1]