Patriot Versus Loyalist: The Struggle for Independence in Colonial America

In May 1775, news of battles at Lexington and Concord reached London, signaling the start of the American Revolutionary War. King George III was in disbelief over the defeat. In the colonies, opinions were divided between Patriots, who sought independence, and Loyalists, who supported the British monarchy. Prominent Patriots included John Adams and Benjamin Franklin, while Loyalists were often older, wealthier, and included many Anglican Church members. By 1776, Patriots controlled most territories, and Loyalists faced persecution. After the war, many Loyalists fled to Canada, but most stayed and became citizens of the new republic.

What was King George III's reaction to the news of the defeat at Concord?

• He celebrated the victory.

• He ignored the news.

• He decided to negotiate peace.

• He called his undersecretary a liar.

Who were the Patriots in the American colonies?

• Supporters of the British monarchy

• Foreign mercenaries

• Neutral parties in the conflict

• Supporters of the war against Britain

Which of the following was NOT a prominent leader of the Patriots?

• Samuel Adams

• John Hancock

• George III

• Benjamin Franklin

What percentage of white colonists supported the Patriots' cause according to historians?

• 60%

• 75%

• 45%

• 20%

Where were the largest numbers of Loyalists found?

• New York and New Jersey

• Georgia and Florida

• Virginia and Maryland

• Massachusetts and Connecticut

Why did many Loyalists choose to side with the British?

• Fear of losing trade markets

• Desire for independence

• Lack of military support

• Religious differences

What happened to Loyalists in the South during the war?

• They formed their own independent state.

• They were left alone by the Patriots.

• They were persecuted and had property confiscated.

• They were given land by the Patriots.

What percentage of Loyalists fled to areas within the British Empire after the war?

• 10%

• 40%

• 20%

• 30%

What was the estimated number of Loyalists during the American Revolutionary War?

• 1,000,000

• 250,000

• 100,000

• 500,000

What was the impact of the Loyalists' departure on the colonies?

• It resulted in immediate peace.

• It caused a profound impact on many colonies.

• It led to economic growth.

• It had no significant impact.