The colonials didn’t secede from the Brits (but you already knew that).
You don't like the word secede? How about the word Rebelled? Does that word suit you better?
Is it okay if they Rebelled? Let's see what is the difference.
se·cede
intransitive verb \si-ˈsēd\
se·ced·edse·ced·ing
Definition of SECEDE
: to withdraw from an organization (as a religious
communion or political party or federation)
— se·ced·er noun
reb·el
adjective \ˈre-bəl\
Definition of REBEL
1
a : opposing or taking arms against a government or ruler
b : of or relating to rebels
2
: disobedient, rebellious
Yeah, I think you're right. The Colonist Rebelled. Secession sounds a great deal more polite than what they did. Same principle though. They did not want to be part of their previous government.