Final answer:
The most widely feared result if the Patriots achieved military victory over the British was that the commanding general would take over the government and begin dictatorial rule.
Step-by-step explanation:
The result that was most widely feared if the Patriots achieved military victory over the British was B. Following international precedent, the commanding general would take over the government and begin dictatorial rule.
During the American Revolution, there was concern among the colonists about the potential for a military leader to seize power and establish a dictatorial rule. They had seen examples of this happening in other countries, and they wanted to avoid a similar outcome in their new government.
By choosing option B, the question acknowledges the fear that if the Patriots won the war, a military leader might take control and undermine the values of republicanism and freedom that the colonists were fighting for.