🍁history of canada – before 1867 review
2.4 The Loyalists and the American Revolution
Last Updated on August 15, 2024
The American Revolution shook the foundations of British North America. As tensions escalated between colonists and the Crown, Loyalists found themselves caught in the crossfire. Their unwavering support for Britain led to persecution and eventual exodus.
Loyalist migration to British North America reshaped the region's demographics and development. Their arrival sparked the creation of new colonies, altered linguistic landscapes, and reinforced British institutions. This influx set the stage for Canada's unique cultural and political identity.
Causes and Consequences of the American Revolution
British Policies and Colonial Resistance
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- British government imposed taxes on American colonies without representation in Parliament led to growing resentment
- Sugar Act (1764) regulated trade and increased duties on imported goods
- Stamp Act (1765) required colonists to pay tax on printed materials (newspapers, legal documents)
- Townshend Acts (1767) placed new taxes on common imported items (glass, lead, paper, tea)
- Colonists protested these policies through boycotts, petitions, and public demonstrations
- Boston Tea Party (1773) saw colonists dump British tea into Boston Harbor to protest tea taxes
- British Parliament responded with Coercive Acts (1774) to punish Massachusetts
- Closed Boston Harbor until damages were paid
- Limited Massachusetts' self-governance
- Required colonists to quarter British soldiers
- First Continental Congress formed (1774) to coordinate colonial response to British actions
Outbreak of War and Declaration of Independence
- Armed conflict began at Battles of Lexington and Concord (April 1775)
- British troops attempted to seize colonial weapons cache
- Local militia confronted British forces, marking start of Revolutionary War
- Second Continental Congress convened (May 1775) to manage colonial war effort
- Appointed George Washington as commander of Continental Army
- Thomas Paine's pamphlet "Common Sense" (January 1776) argued for complete independence from Britain
- Declaration of Independence adopted (July 4, 1776)
- Formally announced colonies' separation from British rule
- Outlined grievances against King George III
- Proclaimed natural rights of liberty and equality
Consequences and Global Impact
- Treaty of Paris (1783) officially ended Revolutionary War
- Recognized United States as independent nation
- Established new territorial boundaries
- U.S. gained land east of Mississippi River
- Britain ceded Florida to Spain
- American Revolution inspired other revolutionary movements globally
- French Revolution (1789-1799)
- Haitian Revolution (1791-1804)
- Latin American independence movements (early 19th century)
- Significant demographic changes occurred in North America
- Loyalist migration to British North America and Caribbean
- Estimated 60,000-100,000 Loyalists left United States
- New form of republican government established in United States
- Articles of Confederation (1781-1789)
- U.S. Constitution (1789) created federal system with checks and balances
Loyalists in the American Revolution
Loyalist Demographics and Motivations
- Loyalists comprised approximately 15-20% of colonial population during American Revolution
- Diverse group included various social classes, ethnicities, and occupations
- Wealthy merchants with strong economic ties to Britain
- Government officials appointed by Crown
- Recent immigrants from Britain
- Some Native American tribes allied with British
- Motivations for Loyalist allegiance varied widely
- Economic interests linked to British trade system
- Ideological belief in legitimacy of monarchical rule
- Fear of social upheaval and radical change
- Religious convictions (Anglican clergy often remained loyal)
- Personal loyalty to British Crown
- Geographic distribution of Loyalists not uniform
- Stronger Loyalist presence in urban centers (New York City, Philadelphia)
- Significant Loyalist populations in southern colonies (Georgia, South Carolina)
Loyalist Experiences During the Conflict
- Many Loyalists faced persecution from Patriot neighbors
- Property confiscation and destruction
- Tar and feathering
- Imprisonment or forced exile
- Intensity of anti-Loyalist sentiment varied by region and over time
- More severe in areas with strong Patriot majorities
- Increased as conflict progressed
- Some Loyalists actively participated in military conflict
- Joined British military units (Loyal American Regiment, Queen's Rangers)
- Provided intelligence and logistical support to British forces
- Loyalist families often divided over political allegiances
- Benjamin Franklin's son William remained loyal to Crown, causing family rift
- Loyalist refugees fled to British-controlled areas during war
- New York City became major Loyalist stronghold
- Florida and Nova Scotia received influx of Loyalist refugees
Loyalist Migration to British North America
Patterns of Loyalist Settlement
- Approximately 40,000-50,000 Loyalists migrated to British North America between 1775-1784
- Major settlement areas included:
- Nova Scotia (including present-day New Brunswick)
- Quebec (later divided into Upper and Lower Canada)
- Prince Edward Island
- Newfoundland
- British government implemented land grant policies to encourage Loyalist settlement
- Provided free land, tools, and provisions to Loyalist families
- New colonies created to accommodate Loyalist influx
- New Brunswick separated from Nova Scotia (1784)
- Cape Breton briefly became separate colony (1784-1820)
- Loyalist migration led to division of Quebec into Upper and Lower Canada (1791)
- Upper Canada (present-day Ontario) primarily English-speaking
- Lower Canada (present-day Quebec) remained predominantly French-speaking
Impact on Demographics and Development
- Loyalist migration significantly altered demographic composition of British North America
- Increased English-speaking population in predominantly French regions
- Introduced greater ethnic and religious diversity
- Loyalists brought various skills and professions
- Farmers, artisans, merchants, lawyers, and government officials
- Contributed to economic diversification and development
- Accelerated settlement of previously sparsely populated areas
- Saint John River Valley in New Brunswick
- Bay of Quinte region in Upper Canada
- Loyalist influx created linguistic and cultural tensions
- Particularly in Quebec, where French-speaking majority faced growing English presence
- Loyalist settlements reinforced British institutions and legal systems
- English common law introduced in areas previously under French civil law
Loyalists and the Transformation of British North America
Political and Institutional Changes
- Loyalist influence led to implementation of representative government
- New Brunswick granted representative assembly (1784)
- Constitutional Act (1791) provided representative government for Upper and Lower Canada
- Loyalists strengthened ties to British monarchy and institutions
- Emphasized loyalty to Crown as key aspect of political identity
- Contributed to development of conservative political culture
- Loyalist presence influenced development of legal systems
- English common law practices introduced or reinforced
- Gradual shift away from French civil law in some regions
Social and Cultural Impact
- Loyalist migration reinforced Anglican and Protestant churches
- Established new parishes and congregations
- Influenced religious education and social services
- Integration of Loyalists resulted in social stratification
- Some Loyalists sought to maintain pre-revolution social status
- Created tensions with existing settlers and late-arriving Loyalists
- Loyalist communities played role in shaping early Canadian identity
- Emphasized distinction from United States
- Promoted loyalty to Crown as defining characteristic
- Loyalist influence on education and cultural institutions
- Established schools and academies
- Brought books, art, and cultural practices from American colonies
Economic and Labor Implications
- Loyalist migration introduced new economic activities and skills
- Shipbuilding industry developed in Maritime regions
- Agricultural practices from mid-Atlantic and southern colonies introduced
- Some Loyalists brought enslaved people, reinforcing slavery in parts of British North America
- Particularly in Maritime colonies and Upper Canada
- Complicated region's relationship with institution of slavery
- Loyalist settlements stimulated local economies
- Increased demand for goods and services
- Led to establishment of new markets and trade networks
- British government's support for Loyalists influenced economic policies
- Preferential trade arrangements with Britain
- Investment in infrastructure to support Loyalist communities
Key Terms to Review (18)
Loyalist migration: Loyalist migration refers to the movement of American Loyalists who remained loyal to the British Crown during the American Revolution and relocated to British territories, including Canada, following the war. This migration significantly impacted the demographic and cultural landscape of Canada, as thousands of Loyalists fled from the newly formed United States seeking safety, land, and a fresh start in a country that remained under British rule.
Loyalty oaths: Loyalty oaths are formal declarations in which individuals pledge their allegiance to a particular government or authority, often used during periods of political tension or upheaval. During the aftermath of the American Revolution, these oaths became significant as they were employed to distinguish Loyalists from rebels, emphasizing loyalty to the British Crown amidst growing revolutionary sentiments. The enforcement of loyalty oaths often reflected the broader conflict between allegiance to Britain and the push for independence in the colonies.
Allegiance: Allegiance refers to the loyalty and commitment that an individual or group pledges to a sovereign power or authority, often involving a sense of duty to support and defend that entity. In the context of the Loyalists during the American Revolution, allegiance was a crucial aspect, as these individuals remained loyal to the British Crown while facing pressures to support the revolutionary cause. This loyalty defined their identity and actions throughout the conflict, shaping both personal and political decisions.
Joseph Brant: Joseph Brant was a prominent Mohawk leader and military figure during the American Revolution, known for his role in advocating for Native American rights and alliances with British Loyalists. As a skilled negotiator and translator, he was instrumental in representing the interests of Indigenous peoples, particularly the Iroquois Confederacy, during a time of great upheaval in North America. His efforts were significant in shaping the relationship between Native Americans and colonial powers during and after the war.
Militia: A militia refers to a military force that is composed of ordinary citizens who are trained to fight in emergencies, rather than being a professional standing army. In the context of the Loyalists and the American Revolution, militias played a critical role in local defense and resistance against perceived threats, often forming the backbone of colonial military efforts.
Constitutional Act 1791: The Constitutional Act of 1791 was a significant piece of legislation that divided the Province of Quebec into two separate colonies: Upper Canada and Lower Canada. This act aimed to accommodate the influx of Loyalists fleeing the American Revolution by providing a more structured government that reflected British political principles, while also recognizing the unique cultural and legal differences in each region.
Battle of Quebec: The Battle of Quebec, fought on December 31, 1775, was a significant military engagement during the American Revolutionary War, where American forces attempted to capture the British-controlled city of Quebec. This battle was crucial as it aimed to secure French Canadian support for the revolutionary cause, but ultimately ended in defeat for the American forces led by General Richard Montgomery and Benedict Arnold. The failure to take Quebec had lasting implications for the revolution and the loyalties of Canadian inhabitants.
Nova Scotia: Nova Scotia is a Canadian province located on the east coast, known for its rich history, diverse culture, and significant role in early Canadian history. It was one of the first areas of European settlement in North America and played a crucial part during various historical events such as the Acadian deportation, the American Revolution, and the formation of Canada as a nation.
William Franklin: William Franklin was a Loyalist during the American Revolution, serving as the last royal governor of New Jersey. His loyalty to the British Crown put him at odds with the revolutionary forces, leading to a complex relationship with both American patriots and Loyalists. As a prominent figure, his actions and experiences represent the struggles faced by many Loyalists who remained loyal to Britain amidst widespread colonial unrest.
Quebec Act 1774: The Quebec Act of 1774 was legislation passed by the British Parliament that expanded the boundaries of Quebec and granted religious freedom to Catholics, while also restoring French civil law in the province. This act aimed to secure the loyalty of French-speaking Canadians and was significant in shaping colonial responses during the period leading up to the American Revolution.
Expeditionary force: An expeditionary force is a military unit sent on a specific mission, often to engage in combat or provide support in foreign territories. In the context of the American Revolution, these forces played a critical role in the Loyalist response to colonial rebellion, helping to solidify British control and maintain loyalty among the colonies.
Cultural Displacement: Cultural displacement refers to the sense of loss or dislocation experienced by individuals or groups when they are removed from their familiar cultural environment. This can occur due to migration, conflict, or changes in social and political circumstances, leading to challenges in maintaining cultural identity and practices. In the context of the Loyalists and the American Revolution, cultural displacement was significant as many Loyalists fled their homes in the Thirteen Colonies, forcing them to adapt to new environments while trying to preserve their cultural heritage.
Treaty of Paris 1783: The Treaty of Paris 1783 officially ended the American Revolutionary War between Great Britain and the United States, recognizing American independence and establishing borders for the new nation. This agreement had significant implications for Loyalists, as it directly influenced their status and future in North America after the war.
United Empire Loyalists: The United Empire Loyalists were American colonists who remained loyal to the British Crown during the American Revolution and fled to Canada after the war. Their migration significantly impacted the social, cultural, and political landscape of early Canada, shaping its identity and influencing immigration patterns in the region.
Loyalists: Loyalists were American colonists who remained loyal to the British Crown during the American Revolutionary War. Their allegiance to Britain was driven by various factors, including political, economic, and social ties, as well as fear of the consequences of rebellion. Following the war, many Loyalists faced persecution and chose to migrate to Canada, significantly influencing settlement patterns and the development of British North America.
Upper Canada: Upper Canada was a region established in 1791, encompassing the area that is now Ontario. It was created to accommodate the influx of Loyalist settlers after the American Revolution and was marked by significant political, social, and economic developments that shaped the early history of Canada leading up to Confederation.
Political Divisions: Political divisions refer to the various segments or factions within a political entity that can arise due to differing interests, ideologies, or regional loyalties. In the context of the Loyalists and the American Revolution, these divisions were critical as they highlighted the tensions between those who remained loyal to the British Crown and those who sought independence, shaping the political landscape of North America during this tumultuous period.
Emigration Patterns: Emigration patterns refer to the trends and movements of individuals leaving one region to settle in another, often influenced by social, economic, and political factors. These patterns can reveal the motivations behind migration, such as seeking better opportunities or escaping conflict. In the context of the Loyalists during the American Revolution, emigration patterns highlight the significant displacement of individuals who remained loyal to the British Crown amidst the upheaval of war.