USA HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -In “Common Sense, ” Thomas Paine argued for independence from Britain and the creation of a democratic republic. Its publication in January 1776 immediately added fuel to the patriots ’ cause.

Detailed explanation-2: -Most Patriots supported independence because they felt that recent British laws on the American Colonies violated their rights as British citizens (e.g. taxing without consent, quartering soldiers in citizens’ homes, and denying colonists the right to a trial).

Detailed explanation-3: -Those who favored independence from Great Britain were called Patriots. Those who wished that the Colonies remain tied to Great Britain were known as Loyalists. Americans who elected not to choose a side were called Neutrals.

Detailed explanation-4: -The Patriots wanted freedom from British rule because they didn’t think they were treated well. The British kept introducing new taxes and laws, and the colonists had no representatives on the government – which lead to unrest and calls for “liberty”. Patriots did not want to be ruled by the British any longer.

Detailed explanation-5: -After French assistance helped the Continental Army force the British surrender at Yorktown, Virginia, in 1781, the Americans had effectively won their independence, though fighting would not formally end until 1783.