Loyalists

Definition

Loyalists were American colonists who remained loyal to the British Crown during the American Revolutionary War. Their allegiance to Britain was driven by various factors, including political, economic, and social ties, as well as fear of the consequences of rebellion. Following the war, many Loyalists faced persecution and chose to migrate to Canada, significantly influencing settlement patterns and the development of British North America.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Loyalists comprised about 20-30% of the colonial population during the American Revolutionary War, with significant concentrations in urban areas and regions with strong British ties.
2. Many Loyalists faced violence, intimidation, and confiscation of property from Patriots during the revolution, forcing them to flee or hide their identities.
3. After the American Revolution, an estimated 60,000 Loyalists relocated to Canada, with a notable influx into Nova Scotia and Quebec.
4. The arrival of Loyalists in Canada contributed to the establishment of new communities and played a role in shaping Canada's political landscape in the years leading up to Confederation.
5. Loyalist migration helped solidify British control over Canada and led to increased tensions with Indigenous peoples as Loyalists sought land for settlement.

Review Questions

• How did the experiences of Loyalists during the American Revolutionary War shape their decision to migrate to Canada?
  • The experiences of Loyalists during the American Revolutionary War were marked by fear of persecution from Patriots, which often led to violence and confiscation of their property. Many Loyalists, facing hostility in their communities due to their allegiance to Britain, chose to flee to Canada for safety. Their migration was not just a quest for security but also an effort to maintain their way of life in a new environment where they could support British rule.
• Evaluate the impact of Loyalist settlement on the development of Canada after the American Revolution.
  • Loyalist settlement had a profound impact on Canada's development after the American Revolution. As Loyalists migrated, they established new communities and brought with them their social structures, legal traditions, and loyalty to Britain. This influx contributed significantly to British North America’s population growth and facilitated the establishment of new governance systems. The presence of Loyalists also intensified British influence in Canada, helping to lay the groundwork for future Canadian identity.
• Analyze how the arrival of Loyalists influenced relations between settlers and Indigenous peoples in Canada post-American Revolution.
  • The arrival of Loyalists in Canada had complex implications for relations with Indigenous peoples. As Loyalists sought land for farming and settlement, they often encroached on territories traditionally occupied by Indigenous groups. This led to tensions and conflicts over land use and rights. Additionally, some Indigenous peoples allied with Loyalists during the American Revolution in hopes of preserving their lands from colonial expansion. However, the influx of Loyalists ultimately increased pressure on Indigenous lands, affecting their traditional ways of life.

Related terms

Patriots: Colonists who rebelled against British rule during the American Revolution, advocating for independence and self-governance.

Quebec Act: A 1774 act by the British Parliament that expanded Quebec's territory and guaranteed religious freedom to Catholics, which was seen favorably by many Loyalists.

Land Grants: Land allocated by the government to Loyalists as compensation for their loyalty and losses during and after the American Revolution.