the natives are restless

English

Etymology

Originally a literal description of rebellious aboriginal inhabitants of British colonies, as in:

• New Zealand Parliamentary Debates: Third Session of the Fourth Parliament, Vol. 2, 1868, page 387

As to the Native question, […] The Natives are restless, and seem desirous of fighting.

Phrase

the natives are restless

1. (set phrase, often mildly humorous) A group of agitated people—such as a set of residents, customers, or citizens—is expressing annoyance, distress, or other discomposure.
   • 1989 October 29, Diane Ketcham, “About Long Island: Warhorses On The Campaign Trail”, in New York Times, retrieved 28 May 2015:

     This election year, the natives are restless, the senior campaigners say. Long Island voters are angry about high taxes, affordable housing and drugs.

   • 1997 December 29, David C. Churbuck, “Help! My PC won't work!”, in Forbes, retrieved 28 May 2015:

     Gateway has plenty of company in having to deal with frustrated, sometimes irate, customers. […] The natives are restless. Few vendors are spared.

   • 2010 May 20, David Von Drehle, “The Pitchfork Primaries: Will Washington Get the Message?”, in Time, retrieved 28 May 2015:

     The natives are restless. Americans of all persuasions at last agree on something. It is a message to their leaders that starts with F and ends with u.