What were the Patriots' advantages and disadvantages in the war? The Patriots' advantages included Fighting on their own ground A higher sense of purpose and motivation since they were fighting for the freedom of their own land, which gave them an advantage over the hired Hessians of the British army Their brilliant leader, George Washington Support of women on the battlefield and at home The Patriots' disadvantages included A small population A lack of a regular army or strong navy A lack of military experience A short supply of weapons and ammunition A lack of money A lack of agreement among American colonists, some of whom were either neutral or were Loyalists, not Patriots