in a paragraph discuss and define Loyalist and Patriots

Loyalists and Patriots were two distinct groups that emerged during the American Revolution. Loyalists, also known as Tories, were colonists who remained loyal to the British Crown and opposed the idea of seeking independence from Britain. They believed in maintaining the status quo and viewed the American Revolution as a threat to their stability and prosperity. Loyalists often consisted of wealthy landowners, government officials, and merchants who had strong ties to Britain and depended on its economic support. On the other hand, Patriots, also called Whigs, were American colonists who advocated for independence from British rule. They were motivated by ideals of freedom, liberty, and self-governance. Patriots believed that the American colonies should govern themselves and not be subordinate to a distant monarchy. They actively fought against British rule, participated in protests and boycotts, and eventually formed an organized army known as the Continental Army. The Patriots' aspirations for a new republic laid the foundation for the birth of the United States of America.