Loyalists and Patriots Two groups that emerged, one wanted to stay loyal to the crown and England; the other seeking independence from England

Loyalists Older in age Many were merchants and wealthy land owners Members of the Church of England Pennsylvania Dutch were loyalists They feared the royal land grants would be taken away Due to fear of Republican Government About 100,000 Loyalists left for England before the war.

About 100,000 Loyalists left for England before the war.

Patriots Many different backgrounds Most were highly educated and wealthy Majority of ordinary men and women Farmers, mechanics, and shopkeepers Middle and lower classes that didn’t like their economic situation. Angry due to British Taxation

Patriots believed British taxes were not legal Colonists were not directly represented in Parliament British believed in “virtual representations” All members of Parliament represent the interests of all British Subjects

Two different Armies The Continental Army Patriot Army-mostly made up of volunteers, little combat experience British Army-most powerful and successful army in Europe The Continental Army Leaders: Washington, and Lafayette Untrained, did not behave like soldiers. Lacked guns and supplies They fought on their own land, knew the land well. They fought for freedom from British rule The British Army Leaders: Clinton, Cornwallis Well trained army that followed orders They had excellent guns and supplies, and uniforms They were fighting far from home. They fought because their government wants them to.

Who should win?