ThesisThe American war for independence, unlike the French Revolution, did not destroy a titled aristocracy but did have a significant social impact on certain population groups. Among those changed socially by the revolution are the loyalists, women, African Americans and the native Americans. I. LoyalistsA-estimated 1/5 to 1/3 of the populationB-included Anglican clergymen, religious minorities, government officials, and some wealthy merchantsC-at wars end some loyalists property was seized by the patriots and many loyalists were forced to evacuate the coloniesD-result was a social leveling out of this groupII.
WomenA-although they failed to attain the status of equality that the war was fought for these women including Abigail Adams challenged the female inequalityB-wives often followed troops or were even engaged in combat(rare)C-in the absence of men women were forced to take over many jobs that men would have ordinarily held such as a secretary or even work on the farmIII. African AmericansA-slaves and free alike came out of the revolution with almost nothing. The revolution was fought for freedom for all but slavery continued. B-About 5000 blacks served in the army and navy and were involved in every major battle. C-Fear of possible slave revolts inhibited use of blacks in southD-However they were gradually freed in the northern and middle statesIV. Native AmericansA-the protection that the British gave them with the proclamation line of 1763 ended with the revolution now white men were free to move in and take whatever they pleased.
