What is a loyelist?

Answer 1

A Loyalist, in the context of the American Revolutionary War, refers to an American colonist who remained loyal to the British Crown and opposed independence from Britain. Loyalists supported British governance and often faced persecution and social ostracism from their patriot neighbors. Many Loyalists fled to British territories or returned to Britain following the war, while others sought to integrate back into American society post-independence. The term can also apply more broadly to anyone who shows loyalty to a particular government or regime.