Question

How did British/the Loyalist propaganda portray the colonists?

- A. As noble fighters for independence.
- B. As misguided and unruly troublemakers.
- C. As loyal subjects of the Crown.
- D. As advocates for peaceful negotiations.

Answer 1

British/Loyalist propaganda portrayed colonists who supported independence as misguided and unruly troublemakers. (option B)

Step-by-step explanation:

The portrayal of the colonists by British/Loyalist propaganda was not as noble fighters for independence. This perspective stemmed from fears of societal breakdown and economic instability if ties to the British Empire were severed. Instead, the Loyalists viewed the colonists who were seeking independence as misguided and unruly troublemakers, which aligns with option B of the provided choices. This view was underpinned by the Loyalists' belief in the legitimacy of Parliamentary rule, their fear of societal breakdown and mob rule, and concerns regarding the possible loss of economic and social stability should the colonies break away from British rule.

The Loyalists, as well as the Neutralists who were ambivalent or feared taking sides, saw the potential for chaos and the undermining of the constitutional ties and mutual interests that bound the colonies to the British Empire.