Final answer:
The American Revolution divided colonists into Patriots, Loyalists, Neutrals, and various Indigenous groups with differing allegiances based on a variety of concerns and previous alliances.
Step-by-step explanation:
During the American Revolution, colonial America was deeply divided among four main groups: Patriots who sought independence, Loyalists who remained loyal to the British Crown, Neutrals who avoided taking a side, and various Indigenous Peoples with their own unique positions and alliances. Loyalists, accounting for about one-third of the population, were often older, urban residents and members of the Anglican Church, fearing that independence would threaten their political, social, and economic rights.
Another one-third were Neutralists, avoiding public declarations for fear of safety or because of pacifist beliefs. Indigenous Peoples faced complex situations, with some tribes like the Iroquois declaring neutrality, while others sided with the British or Patriots based on their specific circumstances and previous experiences with both groups. This choice was particularly complicated since many tribes had longstanding alliances that were disrupted during the conflict.