Allegiance in the American Revolution

Which of the following best describes a common motivation for Loyalists during the American Revolution?

• Desire for complete independence from Britain

• Belief that remaining loyal to the King would maintain order and protect property

• Support for higher taxes imposed by the colonies

• Wish to form alliances with France

Which group would most likely have remained neutral during the American Revolution?

• Merchants with strong trade ties to Britain

• Recent immigrants with little connection to either side

• Colonial government officials

• Members of the Sons of Liberty

Which of the following best explains why some colonists chose to be Patriots?

• They wanted to maintain British rule

• They believed in self-government and individual rights

• They feared change and instability

• They were promised titles of nobility

Which of the following was a possible reason for a community to remain neutral during the American Revolution?

• Strong economic dependence on Britain

• Fear of retaliation from either side

• Desire to join the Continental Army

• Support for the Declaration of Independence

Which consequence did Loyalists often face after the American Revolution?

• Election to new government positions

• Confiscation of property and forced relocation

• Receiving land from the new American government

• Increased trade opportunities

Which motivation would most likely lead someone to support the Patriot cause?

• Belief in the divine right of kings

• Desire for representation in government

• Fear of losing British military protection

• Loyalty to the Anglican Church

How might a neutral stance have affected a community during the American Revolution?

• It guaranteed safety from both sides

• It sometimes led to suspicion and pressure from both Patriots and Loyalists

• It resulted in automatic support from the British army

• It allowed the community to vote in British Parliament

Which of the following best describes a Loyalist’s view of the American Revolution?

• The colonies should break away from Britain immediately

• The King and Parliament had the right to govern the colonies

• All taxes imposed by Britain were illegal

• The French should control the colonies

Why might some colonists have chosen neutrality instead of joining the Patriots or Loyalists?

• They wanted to avoid conflict and protect their families

• They were promised land by the British

• They were members of the Continental Congress

• They supported the Stamp Act

Imagine you are a merchant in a colonial town with customers who are both Patriots and Loyalists. How might your business interests influence your stance during the Revolution?

• You would likely support the side with the most customers

• You might remain neutral to avoid losing business from either group

• You would join the Patriots to gain independence

• You would stop trading altogether