How did revolutionary events in 1775 and 1776 transform the competing visions of Patriots and Loyalists?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

British actions such as Lord Dunmore's Proclamation (considered "diabolical" by many colonists) helped to convince Patriots that a break with Britain was inevitable and necessary. Americans were becoming convinced that the British political and legal system would no longer protect their liberty. Conversely, the Loyalists felt liberty could only be preserved by upholding English law and that the Patriots' actions were examples of lawlessness. George III's rejection of the Olive Branch Petition and subsequent adoption of the Prohibitory Act (which banned all trade with the thirteen colonies) only fanned the flames of colonial discontent. After this, the Continental Congress basically told the colonies they were independent states no longer under the authority of Parliament or the king. The Declaration of Independence formalized America's decision to part with Britain by explaining the reasons and grievances that necessitated the separation. Many prominent Loyalists were against the decision for independence but instead wanted Britain to change its policy toward the colonies so as to avoid the "dismemberment" of the empire. Other Loyalists like the Quakers opposed a war for independence on religious grounds, while some slaves believed that a British victory gave them the best chance for freedom.

Military battles also influenced the views of Patriots and Loyalists. The Patriots' strong showing at the Battle of Bunker Hill proved they could be a formidable opponent to the British military. The British suffered a heavy toll in this battle.

When King George III rejected the "Olive Branch" petition for peace, written by the Continental Congress, the push for independence gained momentum. Patriots like Thomas Paine argued forcefully for American independence in such writings as Common Sense, in which Paine made a strong indictment of monarchy and supported a democratic theory of representative government. Paine's intense critique of the monarchy equated George III with savagery itself, and so he gave a voice to many who wished to radically transform American political life. Common Sense became a blueprint for those who wished to try a democratic form of government, though Loyalists who supported reconciliation with Britain were appalled by Paine's scathing attacks on the King.