Question

"How do you think American patriotism compared with the British army’s motivations during the war?"

a) American patriotism was stronger
b) British army's motivations were stronger
c) They were equally motivated
d) It's hard to compare

Answer 1

American patriotism during the Revolutionary War was driven by the idea of sacrificing private interests for the general welfare, while the British army's motivations were largely driven by discipline and fear of their officers.

Step-by-step explanation:

During the Revolutionary War, American colonists relied on virtue or patriotism to form bonds between the people. According to historian John Murrin, patriotism "would inspire the settlers to sacrifice their private interests, even their lives, for the general welfare." Nationalism grew during the war, but the states still saw themselves as separate entities. On the other hand, the British army's motivations were largely driven by discipline and fear of their officers. They imposed harsh discipline on soldiers and stood in tight formation on the battlefield.