One could make a good argument for not wanting independence. Many of them simply didn’t want it. Those “elites” in “New England” had the strongest ties to Britain. Their merchants and traders worked with them in the export and import businesses and they really liked that cozy relationship. Many of them were angrier at the new American government than the British crown when they blockaded American ports and stopped their trade with Britain and the other colonies.
True.
Actually, Washington and his revolutionaries were viewed as domestic terrorists by many of the colonials.
The local farmers and merchants were forced to house and supply the British troops, and ensure their safe passage through their towns and ports.
As a result, Washington’s strategic attacks on the British often involved burning out the colonial farms, warehouses, factories, bridges and ports.
I’m sure a lot of the time the farmers and merchants weren’t sure which side was worse.
Of course, the colonials were a lot better off as a result of the American Revolution, but until Washington prevailed, he was quite unpopular in many quarters.