In the American colonies in 1776 Loyalist party affiliates, also known as Tories, were loyal to the British crown. Many Loyalists assured British leaders of their unwavering loyalty to Great Britain and asserted that they would fight for the British in the event of war.
Loyalists believed that a loyalty was owed to Great Britain, that removal of British rule would lead to a collapse of the American colony's economy. Many loyalists were wealthy British officials who had economic ties to England. Others remained loyal due to the immense power of the British military who was known for their incredible naval fleet. Many Loyalists after the signing of the Declaration of Independence, fled the American colonies, taking their wealth with them, to Canada, British Caribbean territories, or back to Great Britain.
During the war some women chose to aid through nursing, spying, disguising themselves as men and fighting, and/or following war camps to aid in care of soldiers. Many loyalist women were left in an awkward position after the Declaration of Independence to stay and care for properties. These properties were often confiscated to punish their husbands, but also punished the women and children with these confiscations. Women were allowed to vote in some states, but outlawed against in doing so in other states. Women's education was also a source of issue because they were not allowed to be educated equal to men but single women were granted more freedoms than married women who lost almost all of their identity post marriage.
Patriots were those who believed that American colonies had the right to independence from Great Britain. Patriots believed that they were being unfairly and harshly taxed by the British and wanted to put an end to it. After the signing of the Declaration of Independence, many Patriots stepped into governmental and political roles. There was a large shift
The phrase "all men are created equal" is one of great controversy because it was open to interpretation. Who exactly is meant by "men"? Does it mean only the male gender, or mankind as well? Are African Americans (and slaves/indentured servants) included in the equality? Do women hold a right to this equality?
