1775: 40 and 45 percent of the white population supported the Patriots’ cause, between 15 and 20% supported the Loyalists, and the remainder were neutral or kept a low profile
ex Robert M. Calhoon, “Loyalism and neutrality” in Jack P. Greene; J. R. Pole (2008). A Companion to the American Revolution. John Wiley & Sons. p. 235.
Valid point.
I still believe that loyalist “support” is not quite the same as government dependency.
But, to counter my own point, I imagine a lot of the loyalists were that because they were benefiting economically and socially from crown rule as much as philosophical loyalty to the monarchy.
Still, if things should openly and actively take that turn, it will be very instructive to see how the people divide up.
Honestly, since Reagan left office, my faith in the intelligence and goodness of the American people has steadily diminished. I apologize for being pessimistic, I wish I could have the hope and faith some FReepers have that the masses will see the light. But I do not.