The Great Loyalist Exodus to Canada: An Overview of the American Revolution's Protagonists

The American Revolution, which led to the establishment of the United States of America, was a complex and often turbulent event that saw a significant number of individuals leave their homes for the northern provinces of what is now Canada. These loyalists, affectionately known as Tories to their revolutionary counterparts, were mostly British colonists who wished to remain loyal to the King and the English Empire.

The Loyalist Perspective

Although the term 'fled' is often used, it is not entirely accurate to characterize the Loyalists' migration as escape. Edward Mahoney highlights that Loyalist heritage remains strong, especially in Eastern Ontario, particularly in Prince Edward County. The loyalist flag, the original 1606 Union Jack design, with only the English and Scottish crosses of St. George and St. Andrew, still flown from many houses, attests to this.

Indigenous Contribution

In addition to the European Loyalists, there was also a notable Indigenous population that migrated to Canada. The largest group consisted of the Haudenosaunee Iroquois under Joseph Brant (Thayendenegea), who settled along the Grand River in Ontario, forming the Six Nations reserve. The city of Brantford is named after Joseph Brant and stands as a testament to the contributions of Indigenous peoples during the period.

The Diverse Makeup of the Loyalists

The Loyalists who migrated to Canada were a diverse group of individuals with varying motivations. Some were straightforward supporters of the crown and others considered the revolutionaries as traitors. Wealthier Loyalists often did not migrate but instead settled in England or the Caribbean, acknowledging that it might be better to have one tyrant a thousand miles away than a thousand tyrants a mile away.

Among the migrants were people of African descent who had won their freedom by joining the British forces. Sir Guy Carlton, Governor of the British colonies, refused to return them as property under the Treaty of Paris, insisting that the British would compensate for their freedom. The Book of Negroes was created to facilitate the payment of these former slaves.

There were also those who opted not to take sides, preferring to avoid conflict altogether. For instance, Quakers faced persecution for their pacifist beliefs and refusal to join the war. Some were minorities or recent arrivals who did not fit the local majority's background or religion. Others were Anglicans who had faced attacks by revolutionary rebels, leading to further migration.

The Impact of the Revolution

The American Revolution was more of a civil war than a simple conflict between America and England. It was a struggle that involved the wealthy and the poor, with some sharecroppers revolting against the wealthy elite. The American Revolution was not without its dark side, as individuals took advantage of the situation to acquire property or eliminate enemies.

Propaganda and Historical Truth

Both the American and British sides used propaganda during the revolution, and these narratives often do not reflect the full truth. However, some historical depictions, such as the movie 'The Patriot,' are far from accurate. The saga of the Loyalists is intricately tied to the political and social upheavals of the time.

Despite the challenges faced by Loyalists in Canada, many were driven out as refugees and had to endure the loss of almost all their possessions. However, they adapted and played a crucial role in the development of the country. Many modern Canadians with Loyalist ancestry are proud of their heritage and often highlight the parallels with current claims made by the US about possessions confiscated by the Cuban government. Many Loyalists, contrary to popular belief, were, in fact, the victims of aggressive confiscation despite the Treaty of Paris agreeing to return Loyalist property.

In conclusion, the migration of Loyalists during and after the American Revolutionary War was a multifaceted historical event. Their journey and impact on the formation of Canada are integral to understanding the complex social and political dynamics of the era.