Who were the "loyalists" during the American Revolution?

• A. Colonists who favored independence
• B. Colonists who remained loyal to the British Crown
• C. Colonists who supported the French
• D. Colonists who wanted to reform British rule

Answer: (B)

During the American Revolution, Loyalists were colonists who remained loyal to the British Crown and did not join the push for independence. They believed Britain’s rule provided stability, protection of trade, and established law, and many had economic or cultural reasons to stay aligned with Britain. In South Carolina, Loyalists included a mix of merchants, planters, and officials who supported continuing British authority, and many faced pressure or harassment from Patriots or chose to evacuate to British-controlled areas or seek safety in Canada after the war. The other descriptions refer to groups who sought independence, supported an alliance with France, or wished to reform British rule from within, none of which captures the idea of loyalty to Britain during the conflict.