Question 3: Compare and contrast Patriots and Loyalists. You should identify at least ONE difference (something unique to the Patriots and something unique to the Loyalists) and ONE similarity.
Patriots___ Similarities___ Loyalists____
Patriots: Patriots were colonists who supported the American Revolution and fought for independence from British rule. They believed in the ideals of liberty, equality, and self-governance and were willing to take up arms to achieve these goals.
Similarities: Both Patriots and Loyalists were colonists living in the American colonies during the time of the American Revolution. They were both influenced by the events leading up to the Revolution, such as the Stamp Act, Townshend Acts, and the Boston Massacre. They also had to make choices and decide where their loyalties lied during this turbulent period.
Loyalists: Loyalists, also known as Tories, were colonists who remained loyal to the British crown and did not support the American Revolution. They believed in maintaining the existing social and political order, with the British monarch as the ultimate authority.
Difference (Patriots): One unique aspect of the Patriots was their willingness to fight and take up arms against the British. They formed militias and fought in battles such as Lexington and Concord, Saratoga, and Yorktown.
Difference (Loyalists): One unique aspect of the Loyalists was their vehement opposition to the American Revolution and their loyalty to the British crown. Some Loyalists actively tried to suppress and undermine the Patriots' efforts, even providing intelligence to the British forces.
Overall, while both Patriots and Loyalists were influenced by the events of the American Revolution, the main difference between them lies in their opposing loyalties and actions during this period.