VS5b - Roles of Virginians in the Revolution

Front

A person who supported England and King George III.

Back

loyalist

Answer explanation

A loyalist was someone who supported the British crown, specifically King George III, during the American Revolutionary War. In contrast, patriots opposed British rule, while red coats referred to British soldiers.

Front

A person who wanted freedom from control of England.

Back

patriot

Answer explanation

A person seeking freedom from England's control is referred to as a patriot. Patriots opposed British rule and fought for independence, unlike loyalists who remained loyal to the crown.

Front

Who was a slave that served in the Continental Army and was given his freedom after the war?

Back

James Lafayette

Answer explanation

James Lafayette was a slave who served in the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. After the war, he was granted his freedom, distinguishing him from other figures like George Washington and Patrick Henry.

Front

Which group of people mostly remained neutral, although some also fought alongside both the patriots and loyalists?

Back

American Indians

Answer explanation

American Indians largely remained neutral during the conflict, although some chose to fight alongside both the patriots and loyalists, seeking to protect their interests amidst the turmoil.

Front

Which group fought for both the British Army and the Continental Army, depending on who promised their freedom?

Back

African Americans

Answer explanation

African Americans fought for both the British Army and the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War, as both sides offered promises of freedom in exchange for their service.

Front

Who inspired people with his speeches?

Back

Patrick Henry

Answer explanation

Patrick Henry inspired people with his powerful speeches advocating for independence and liberty, most famously his "Give me liberty, or give me death!" speech, which rallied support for the American Revolution.

Front

Who wrote the Declaration of Independence?

Back

Thomas Jefferson

Answer explanation

The Declaration of Independence was primarily authored by Thomas Jefferson in 1776. He was chosen for his writing skills and ability to articulate the colonies' desire for independence from British rule.

Front

Some Virginians were_______, meaning they did not take sides.

Back

Neutral

Answer explanation

Some Virginians were Neutral, meaning they did not take sides during the conflict. This distinguishes them from Patriots, who supported independence, and Loyalists, who remained loyal to the British crown.

Front

Who took on more responsibilities during the war?

Back

Women

Answer explanation

During the war, women took on more responsibilities by managing farms, businesses, and even serving as nurses and spies, significantly contributing to the war effort while men were away fighting.

Front

John lived in the Virginia Colony during the Revolutionary War. He joined the Continental Army. John was-

Back

a patriot

Answer explanation

Since John joined the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War, he was fighting for independence from British rule, which makes him a patriot. Loyalists supported the British, while neutrals did not take sides.