Discuss the decision people made to be a Loyalist or a Patriot using social, political, and economic reasons. 3 sentences
The decision to be a Loyalist or a Patriot during the Revolutionary War was often influenced by social factors. Loyalists, who were more conservative, tended to be from the upper class and were loyal to the British Crown due to their social status and relationships with British authorities. Patriots, on the other hand, were more diverse in social backgrounds and were driven by a sense of rebellion against British tyranny and a desire for social change.
Political reasons also played a significant role in the decision-making process. Loyalists believed in the importance of British rule and viewed the authority of the British government as necessary for stability and order. Patriots, however, were motivated by ideas of independence, self-governance, and individual rights, finding inspiration in Enlightenment philosophies such as John Locke's social contract theory.
Economic factors also shaped people's allegiance during this time. Loyalists, who tended to be involved in mercantile and trade activities, viewed the British Empire as an economic benefactor, assisting them in maintaining their prosperity. On the contrary, Patriots, comprising mostly farmers and rural communities, resented British economic policies such as taxes and trade regulations that they considered exploitative, leading them to support the cause of American independence.