Who was the lantern meant to warn in national treasure?

In "National Treasure," the lantern was meant to warn Paul Revere of the British troops' approach during the American Revolution. Specifically, it was used to signal whether the British were coming by land or by sea, with one lantern for land and two for sea. This historical context is woven into the film's treasure hunt, illustrating the importance of communication and secrecy in the fight for independence.