in opposition to lawful civil or political authority; as insurgent chiefs.

A person who rises in opposition to civil or political authority; one who openly and actively resists the execution of laws. An insurgent differs from a rebel. The insurgent opposes the execution of a particular law or laws; the rebel attempts to overthrow or change the government, or he revolts and attempts to place his country under another jurisdiction. All rebels are insurgents, but all insurgents are not rebels.