6.4 Identity during the American Revolution

The American Revolution sparked a clash between Loyalists and Patriots, dividing colonists based on their allegiance to the British Crown or desire for independence. This conflict reshaped identities and loyalties, forcing individuals to choose sides and face the consequences of their political beliefs.

The Revolution's impact extended beyond the primary combatants, affecting diverse groups like enslaved people, Native Americans, and women. These groups found new opportunities and challenges during the war, reshaping their roles in society and contributing to the evolving American identity.

Identity and the American Revolution

Loyalists vs Patriots in Revolution

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• Loyalists (Tories)
  • Remained loyal to British Crown believed in supremacy of Parliament and King
  • Feared chaos and disorder resulting from rebellion against established authority
  • Included many wealthy merchants (John Singleton Copley), colonial officials (Thomas Hutchinson), and Anglican clergy who benefited from British rule
  • Faced persecution, property confiscation, and exile during war for their political beliefs
• Patriots (Whigs)
  • Sought independence from British rule opposed taxation without representation (Stamp Act, Tea Act) and perceived British tyranny
  • Believed in principles of self-governance and individual rights enshrined in Declaration of Independence
  • Included many farmers, artisans (Paul Revere), and intellectuals (Thomas Paine) who felt oppressed by British policies
  • Risked lives and property in support of Revolutionary cause fought in Continental Army and militia units
  • Embraced republicanism as a political ideology emphasizing civic virtue and the common good

Impact on diverse groups

• Enslaved people
  • Promised freedom by British in exchange for supporting Crown (Lord Dunmore's Proclamation) saw opportunity for emancipation
  • Some escaped to British lines seeking emancipation (Black Loyalists) fought in British regiments
  • Others fought alongside Patriot owners (1st Rhode Island Regiment) hoping for eventual freedom as reward for service
  • Faced continued enslavement and oppression regardless of war's outcome Declaration of Independence did not extend rights to enslaved individuals
• Native Americans
  • Divided in allegiances during conflict some tribes allied with British (Mohawk, Seneca) while others supported Patriots (Oneida, Tuscarora)
  • British promised to protect Native American lands from colonial encroachment in exchange for support
  • Patriots viewed Native American alliances with British as threat to security and territorial expansion
  • Regardless of allegiance, many Native American communities suffered displacement (Iroquois Confederacy), disease (smallpox), and violence (Sullivan Expedition) as result of war

Women's roles in Revolution

• Managed households and farms in absence of men who were fighting or serving in political roles
• Participated in boycotts of British goods (Homespun Movement) promoted homespun clothing as act of resistance
• Served as spies (Culper Ring), messengers, and nurses (Martha Washington) for Continental Army provided vital intelligence and support
• Raised funds for war effort through organizations like Ladies Association organized donations and fundraising drives
• Notable figures:
  • Abigail Adams advocated for women's rights ("Remember the Ladies") served as advisor to husband John Adams
  • Mercy Otis Warren political writer and propagandist for Patriot cause published plays and poems criticizing British policies
  • Phillis Wheatley enslaved poet who wrote in support of Revolution ("To His Excellency General Washington") challenged slavery and racial prejudice
  • Mary Ludwig Hays (Molly Pitcher) reportedly took husband's place at cannon during Battle of Monmouth became symbol of women's bravery and patriotism

Philosophical Foundations and Colonial Identity

• Enlightenment ideals influenced Revolutionary thought, emphasizing reason, individual rights, and limited government
• Social contract theory shaped understanding of relationship between citizens and government
• Liberty became a central concept in Revolutionary rhetoric, used to justify resistance against British rule
• Colonial identity evolved during the conflict, shifting from British subjects to American citizens
• Patriots promoted civic virtue as essential for maintaining a republican form of government