The Contested Path to Independence: Support for the American Revolution in the 13 Colonies

The question of whether only a quarter of the population in the 13 colonies supported independence from British rule is complex. This article delves into the various factors and dynamics that influenced public opinion during the period leading up to the American Revolution.

Early Outbursts and Pioneering Momentum

Before Thomas Paine's influential pamphlet "Common Sense" was published, there was a relatively low desire for independence among the colonists. Significant events such as the Boston Massacre in 1770 began to stir the sentiments of the populace, but the idea of independence remained far from the mainstream consciousness.

The Siege of Boston and the Unfolding Crisis

In 1775, the Minutemen, a locally raised militia, laid siege to Boston, a pivotal moment that marked the beginning of hostilities between the American colonists and British forces. As the tensions escalated, New England colonies went a step further by raising an army to invade Canada, further cementing their resolve against British rule.

By the time the Declaration of Independence was adopted in July 1776, a significant shift had occurred. John Adams, one of the leading figures of the American Revolution, provided a breakdown in his famous letter to his wife Abigail, stating that the population was divided roughly into three groups: 1/3 were pro-independence, 1/3 were anti-independence, and 1/3 were neutral. However, his later estimation suggests a more nuanced reality.

A Nuanced Reality of Support and Division

Adam’s later views indicate a more complex picture. In his 1804 letter to Byles, he refined his earlier remarks, asserting that the majority of neutral Americans ultimately supported the independent government without actively aiding the British forces. This shift in allegiance underscores the evolving nature of support for the Revolution.

John Adams' three parts were not evenly distributed geographically. In the New England colonies, support for independence was notably strong, with rates reaching up to 80% or more. Similarly, Virginia, the second most populous region, exhibited similar levels of support.

Support in the other regions, such as Maryland and North Carolina, was also robust. However, in New York and Pennsylvania, support was notably weaker. There were distinct differences in the populations. The Dutch and Quakers tended to lean towards Loyalist positions, while the German settlers were more uncertain about the conflict, possibly due to language barriers. The technical nature of the debates over English common law, constitutional matters, and customs might have obscured the issues from the general German population.

Approximate Population and Level of Support

According to estimates, the free population of the US in 1770 was approximately 1.7 million. New England, with about 571,000, and Virginia, with 260,000, were the most populous regions supporting the Revolution. Strong support was evident in Maryland and North Carolina, but this was offset by weaker support in New York and Pennsylvania.

Historical assessments suggest that around 50% of the actively involved population supported the Revolution, significantly less than the 25% originally mentioned, but still a considerable number. Much less than a third (1/3) were confirmed Loyalists, reflecting the complex internal divisions within the colonial population.

Conclusion

The quest for independence was far from unanimous. While there were significant pockets of support and active involvement, it is important to recognize the nuanced and evolving nature of public support and opposition during the American Revolution. The milestone points, such as the Boston Massacre and the publication of "Common Sense," played crucial roles in shaping these dynamics, ultimately leading to the widespread acceptance and active participation in the fight for independence.