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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Patriots and Loyalists?

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The main difference between Patriots and Loyalists during the American Revolution lies in their allegiance and support for, or against, British rule in the colonies.

Patriots:

  • Rejected British rule over the colonies during the American Revolution.
  • Grew weary of British rules and policies, especially when they had no say in how these laws would be made or implemented.
  • Strived for freedom from a tyrannical royal government, often led by Royal Governors who suppressed any utterance of rebellion.
  • Became increasingly willing to fight for their cause, even when it was not popular.

Loyalists:

  • Supported the crown and remained loyal to British rule during the American Revolution.
  • May not have agreed with the policies and laws of the Crown, but they knew they had a duty to uphold the laws and remain loyal to the government that controlled their daily lives.
  • Felt that they could not morally choose a side due to their religious beliefs.
  • Tended to be upper middle class, educated elites, and their social identity was woven to that of the crown.

Both Patriots and Loyalists had different perspectives on the effects of separation from England on their businesses and trade. Patriots believed that they would be better off without England controlling their trade and would be free to trade with anyone they pleased. On the other hand, Loyalists feared that separation from England would be disastrous for business, as England not only provided them with a market for their goods but also protected their trade on land and at sea.

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  • What is the Difference Between Patriots and Loyalists?
  • Comparative Table: Patriots vs Loyalists

    • Comparative Table: Patriots vs Loyalists

    Here is a table comparing the differences between Patriots and Loyalists during the American Revolution:

    Feature Patriots Loyalists
    Goal Wanted the Thirteen Colonies to gain independence from Britain, form the United States of America, and create their own laws Wanted to remain loyal to British rule and maintain the existing political structure
    Motivation Sought freedom from British rule due to perceived unfair treatment, including new taxes and laws Believed that being British subjects was advantageous and that the British Empire had the legitimate power to govern the 13 Colonies
    Nickname Revolutionaries, Continentals, American Whigs, or Rebels Tories, Loyalists, or the King's Men
    Involvement in British Business Less involved in business activities with the British, so breaking ties did not come at great costs More involved in business activities with the British, so breaking ties came at higher costs
    Stance on Intolerable Acts Viewed the Intolerable Acts as too harsh and unjust Did not view the Intolerable Acts as too harsh and were willing to abide by them
    Support for British Empire Eager to secure their freedom Willing to wait for changes and support the British Empire
    Views on Boston Tea Party Seen as a protest against British policies Considered the participants as troublemakers
    Response to Patriot Threats Loyalists promised to fight on behalf of the British

    Both Patriots and Loyalists were part of the same people with different opinions, living under the domination of the British Empire.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.