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Identify the reasons the Loyalists supported the British during the Revolutionary War?

1) They believed in the authority of the British monarchy
2) They feared the consequences of a revolution
3) They had economic ties to Britain
4) They were loyal to their British heritage

User Mansfield
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2 Answers

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Final answer:

The Loyalists supported the British during the Revolutionary War because of their belief in the authority of the British monarchy, fear of revolution, economic ties to Britain, and loyalty to their British heritage.

Thus, the correct option is 1.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Loyalists supported the British during the Revolutionary War for several reasons:

  1. Belief in the authority of the British monarchy: Many Loyalists believed in the divine right of kings and felt a strong loyalty towards the British monarchy.
  2. Fear of the consequences of a revolution: Loyalists were concerned about the potential chaos and instability that could result from a revolution. They preferred the stability and order provided by the British government.
  3. Economic ties to Britain: Many Loyalists had significant economic ties to Britain, such as being merchants or having business connections. They were concerned about losing their economic benefits if they supported the revolution.
  4. Loyalty to British heritage: Some Loyalists were loyal to their British heritage and culture. They felt a strong sense of identity and connection to Britain and did not want to separate from it.

Therefore, the correct option is 1. They believed in the authority of the British monarchy

User Parrowdice
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3 votes

Final answer:

Loyalists supported the British during the Revolutionary War due to their belief in the monarchy, fear of revolution consequences, economic ties, and security concerns. Their ranks included various socio-economic, religious, and ethnic groups, and were often influenced by personal and pragmatic considerations. So, the correct option is 1) They believed in the authority of the British monarchy 3) They had economic ties to Britain 4) They were loyal to their British heritage

Step-by-step explanation:

The reasons the Loyalists supported the British during the Revolutionary War are multi-faceted. Firstly, many Loyalists believed in the authority of the British monarchy and constitutional ties to the Empire.

They had a sense of loyalty to their British heritage and viewed themselves as defenders of the British constitution. Secondly, there was a fear of the consequences of a revolution, including mob rule and a lack of respect for the public good that they believed could result from independence.

Thirdly, economic interests played a significant role, with many Loyalists possessing extensive business ties and economic dependencies on Britain.

This included merchants and shippers fearing the economic consequences of a break and losing land granted by the crown.

Fourthly, practical security concerns were present, as frontier farmers relied on the British army for protection against Native American attacks.

Loyalist support was also bolstered by resentment towards local patriot rivals, whom some viewed as opportunistic and hypocritical.

This animosity even led to tenant uprisings in regions like New York's Hudson Valley. Furthermore, royal officials, merchants, members of the Anglican Church, and various ethnic groups such as Highland Scots and Germans generally supported the Loyalist cause.

Additionally, some individuals supported the British out of fear for personal safety or pacifist objections to war.

So, the correct option is 1) They believed in the authority of the British monarchy 3) They had economic ties to Britain 4) They were loyal to their British heritage

User Doctorlove
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