9.1 Loyalists in the American Revolution
4 min read•august 13, 2024
The American Revolution divided colonists, with choosing to remain faithful to the British Crown. These individuals came from diverse backgrounds, including wealthy merchants, recent immigrants, and colonial officials. Their motivations ranged from economic interests to fears of revolutionary chaos.
Loyalists faced significant challenges during and after the war. Many experienced social ostracism, property confiscation, and forced relocation. The aftermath saw a mass migration of Loyalists to Canada and other British territories, profoundly impacting the demographic and cultural landscapes of these regions.
Loyalists in the American Revolution
Diverse Groups and Individuals
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- Loyalists, also known as or , were colonists who remained loyal to the British Crown during the American Revolution
- Constituted approximately 15-20% of the colonial population
- Came from diverse backgrounds
- Wealthy merchants, landowners, and professionals who benefited from ties to the British Empire
- Recent immigrants from Great Britain who maintained strong cultural and familial connections to their homeland
- Colonial officials (governors, judges, and bureaucrats) who held positions appointed by the British Crown and felt obligated to maintain their allegiance
- Members of minority groups (African Americans and Native Americans) who believed that their interests would be better protected under British rule
- Conservative colonists who valued stability, order, and the traditional hierarchical structure of British society
- Religious factors also influenced Loyalist allegiances
- Some and opposed the revolution due to their religious beliefs and ties to the Church of England
Motivations and Reasons for Support
- Believed in the legitimacy of British rule and the supremacy of the British Constitution
- Viewed the actions of the revolutionaries as illegal and disruptive to the established order
- Valued the protection and economic benefits provided by the British Empire
- Military defense, access to markets, and the stability of the British currency
- Feared the chaos and uncertainty that would result from a successful revolution
- Preferred the known system of over the potential risks of independence
- Viewed the revolutionaries as radicals who threatened the social and political order
- Feared that independence would lead to anarchy and mob rule
- Economic interests played a significant role
- Many had close business ties to British merchants and feared the disruption of trade and property rights
- Those in positions of power had a vested interest in maintaining the status quo and their privileged positions within the colonial hierarchy
- Believed that grievances with the British government could be resolved through peaceful negotiation and reform, rather than violent revolution
Challenges Faced by Loyalists
Social and Political Ostracism
- Faced significant social and political ostracism within their communities
- Subjected to harassment, intimidation, and violence by their Patriot neighbors
- Property confiscated, looted, or destroyed by revolutionary authorities and mobs
- Led to financial hardship and displacement
- Forced to flee their homes and communities
- Sought refuge in British-controlled territories or abroad
- Resulted in the separation of families and the loss of social networks
Wartime Challenges
- Some actively fought alongside British forces during the war
- Served in Loyalist regiments or as spies and informants
- Further exacerbated tensions with their Patriot counterparts
- Faced difficult decisions after the war about whether to remain in the newly independent United States or to relocate to other parts of the British Empire (Canada or the Caribbean)
- Those who chose to stay in the United States often faced continued discrimination, political disenfranchisement, and difficulty reintegrating into post-war society
- The (1783) provided little protection or compensation for Loyalist losses
- Many sought redress from the British government or had to rebuild their lives in new territories
Loyalist Migration and its Impact
Migration to Canada
- Approximately 60,000 to 80,000 Loyalists migrated to other parts of the British Empire after the Revolutionary War
- Majority settled in the Canadian provinces (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Quebec)
- Significantly altered the demographic, political, and cultural landscape of Canada
- Contributed to the development of a distinct Canadian identity
- Played a crucial role in the economic and institutional development of the Canadian colonies
- Established businesses, schools, and churches
- Strengthened the British colonial administration and reinforced ties to the British Crown
- Influenced Canada's political evolution as a separate entity from the United States
- Shaped the region's social and cultural fabric, particularly in the Maritime provinces
- Many descendants of Loyalists maintained a strong sense of identity and pride in their heritage
Migration to Other British Territories
- Some Loyalists, particularly those from the American South, migrated to British Caribbean colonies (Bahamas and Jamaica)
- Established plantations and contributed to the economic and social development of these territories
- Loyalist exodus also had an impact on the post-war development of Sierra Leone in West Africa
- British government resettled a group of Black Loyalists who had fought for the British during the war
Key Terms to Review (20)
Anglicans: Anglicans are members of the Church of England and its affiliated churches worldwide, rooted in the Protestant Reformation and characterized by a middle path between Roman Catholicism and Protestantism. This group played a crucial role during the American Revolution, particularly among Loyalists who sought to maintain their allegiance to the British Crown and the established church.
Battle of Brooklyn: The Battle of Brooklyn, fought on August 27, 1776, was a significant early conflict in the American Revolutionary War, where British forces aimed to capture New York City. This battle marked a major defeat for the Continental Army, leading to their retreat and showcasing the military challenges faced by American forces. The events surrounding this battle had profound implications for both Loyalists, who supported British rule, and Patriots, who fought for independence, illustrating the deep divisions within the colonies during the war.
British Governance: British governance refers to the political and administrative system established by the British Empire, particularly during the colonial period, which emphasized centralized control and authority over its territories. This system laid the groundwork for laws, taxation, and governance structures that would be imposed on the American colonies, leading to significant tensions and ultimately contributing to the American Revolution.
Colonial allegiance: Colonial allegiance refers to the loyalty and commitment that the American colonists had towards their governing body, whether it was the British Crown or local colonial governments, during the period leading up to and throughout the American Revolution. This loyalty played a crucial role in shaping the political landscape of the time, as it influenced many colonists' decisions to support either the British or the revolutionary cause.
Declaration of Independence: The Declaration of Independence is a historical document that proclaimed the thirteen American colonies' separation from British rule, adopted on July 4, 1776. This pivotal declaration not only outlined the colonies' grievances against King George III but also articulated the Enlightenment principles of individual rights and government by consent, inspiring movements for democracy and freedom worldwide.
Joseph Galloway: Joseph Galloway was a prominent American Loyalist and politician during the American Revolution, known for his role as a delegate to the Continental Congress and his advocacy for reconciliation with Britain. He was a strong supporter of loyalist views and presented a plan for colonial union that aimed to preserve British authority while addressing some colonial grievances, reflecting the complexities of colonial identity during this tumultuous period.
Loyalist Manifesto: The Loyalist Manifesto refers to a collection of writings and declarations made by loyalists during the American Revolution, expressing their allegiance to the British Crown and outlining their grievances against the revolutionaries. This manifesto served as a means for loyalists to articulate their political views, justify their opposition to the independence movement, and rally support among fellow loyalists and the British government. It reflects the complex loyalties and divisions that characterized American society at the time.
Loyalist oppression: Loyalist oppression refers to the persecution and discrimination faced by individuals and families who remained loyal to the British Crown during the American Revolution. This oppression manifested through social ostracism, violence, property confiscation, and legal repercussions, as revolutionary fervor swept through the colonies and Loyalists became targets for their allegiance to Britain.
Loyalist Property Confiscation: Loyalist property confiscation refers to the practice during and after the American Revolution where the properties of Loyalists—those who remained loyal to the British Crown—were seized by revolutionary governments. This action was fueled by a desire to punish Loyalists for their allegiance to Britain, as well as to use the confiscated assets to support the war effort and fund the new American government. The confiscation often involved legal processes, and in many cases, it led to permanent loss of property for Loyalists.
Loyalist Refugee Crisis: The Loyalist Refugee Crisis refers to the mass exodus of loyalists who fled from the American colonies to other regions, particularly Canada and Britain, during and after the American Revolution. This crisis emerged as a result of the harsh treatment loyalists faced from revolutionary forces and their supporters, leading many to seek safety and security elsewhere, significantly impacting demographics and societies in those regions.
Loyalist Resettlement in Canada: Loyalist resettlement in Canada refers to the migration of American Loyalists to Canada following the American Revolution, primarily between 1783 and 1784. This movement was driven by the Loyalists' desire to escape persecution and maintain their allegiance to the British Crown after the Revolutionary War, resulting in significant demographic and cultural changes in Canadian society.
Loyalists: Loyalists were American colonists who remained loyal to the British Crown during the American Revolution, opposing the push for independence. They believed that their political and economic interests were best served by staying connected to Britain, viewing the rebellion as a threat to stability and order.
Loyalty to the crown: Loyalty to the crown refers to the allegiance and commitment of individuals or groups to the monarchy and its authority, particularly in the context of British rule during the American Revolution. This loyalty was a significant aspect for many colonists who believed in the legitimacy of the British monarchy and felt a duty to support it against revolutionary sentiments. Loyalists, or those loyal to the crown, often viewed their allegiance as a defense of stability, tradition, and their rights under British governance.
Patriotism: Patriotism is the emotional attachment and devotion one feels toward their country, often expressed through pride in national achievements, culture, and values. This strong sense of loyalty can motivate individuals to support their nation's interests and defend it against perceived threats. Throughout history, patriotism has played a significant role in shaping national identity and mobilizing citizens during times of conflict, such as the American Revolution.
Political Loyalty: Political loyalty refers to the allegiance or commitment an individual or group holds toward a specific government, political system, or leader. In the context of the American Revolution, political loyalty was deeply intertwined with identity and societal divisions, influencing the choices made by colonists regarding their support for independence or the British crown.
Quakers: Quakers, also known as the Religious Society of Friends, are a Christian denomination known for their commitment to peace, equality, and simplicity. Emerging in the mid-17th century in England, Quakers played a notable role during the American Revolution, particularly as Loyalists, due to their beliefs in pacifism and non-violence which influenced their stance towards the conflict.
Royalists: Royalists were individuals or groups that remained loyal to the British monarchy during the American Revolution, opposing the independence movement. They believed in maintaining allegiance to King George III and the established order, often seeing themselves as protectors of stability and tradition in a time of upheaval. This loyalty was deeply rooted in political, economic, and social considerations, leading to significant conflict with those who sought independence from British rule.
Tories: Tories were American colonists who remained loyal to the British Crown during the American Revolutionary War. This group, also known as Loyalists, opposed the revolution and supported British rule, often leading to conflicts with patriot factions. Their allegiance to Britain was rooted in various factors, including economic interests, fear of disorder, and a belief in the legitimacy of British governance.
Treaty of Paris: The Treaty of Paris, signed in 1783, officially ended the American Revolutionary War and recognized American independence from British rule. This treaty not only established the boundaries of the new nation but also marked a significant shift in power dynamics between the former colonies and Britain, setting the stage for future relations and conflicts.
William Franklin: William Franklin was a prominent Loyalist during the American Revolution, known for his role as the last colonial governor of New Jersey. As the son of Benjamin Franklin, William’s allegiance to the British Crown put him at odds with many of his contemporaries, especially as tensions escalated between the colonies and Britain. His steadfast support for Loyalist principles often led to personal and political conflicts, highlighting the deep divisions within colonial society during this tumultuous period.