Final answer:
Loyalists opposed rebellion against King George III because they feared the instability and potential loss of property and rights that might follow.
Step-by-step explanation:
Loyalists, also known as Tories, represented about one-third of the American population during the era of the Revolutionary War. Their reluctance to support the patriots' cause against King George III was rooted in a variety of reasons that stemmed from practical, ideological, and strategic concerns. Many loyalists were property holders, royal officials, merchants, or members of the Anglican Church, who perceived the revolution as a threat to the stability and order of their lives. They feared the uncertainty and potential chaos that could come from a successful rebellion, and they were concerned about the impact on their social, political, and economic rights.
Loyalist opinion varied, with some merely fearing the outcomes of a rebellion, while others actively supported British rule due to constitutional ties, economic interests, or social alignments. They were diverse, encompassing American-born and European-born residents who often lived in urban centers and regions with strong British influence. Many highland Scots, Germans, and frontier farmers also feared losing land or protection if they opposed the crown. Moreover, the loyalists viewed the patriot movements with suspicion, considering them to be promoters of mob rule, violence, and disorder. In their view, maintaining a relationship with Britain would ensure continued trade and protection that were deemed necessary for their well-being.Furthermore, loyalists contributed to the British cause by serving in the army and loyalist militias, conducting intelligence, procuring supplies, and sometimes engaging in uprisings to distract patriot forces. The British strategy in the war also relied heavily on the support from loyalists, as well as enslaved individuals and Native American allies, particularly in the southern colonies.