What term best describes the colonists who supported American independence from British rule?

The term that best describes the colonists who supported American independence from British rule is "Patriots." Patriots were individuals who actively sought to break away from British control and establish a separate, independent nation. They believed in the principles of liberty, self-governance, and the right to self-determination. This group played a crucial role in the American Revolution, organizing protests against British policies, such as the Stamp Act and the Townshend Acts, and forming groups like the Continental Congress and the Sons of Liberty.

In contrast, Loyalists were colonists who remained loyal to the British Crown and opposed the push for independence. Neutrals were those who did not take a strong position on either side during the conflict, often seeking to avoid the consequences of choosing sides. Federalists emerged later as advocates for a strong central government under the Constitution, which was established after the Revolutionary War. Understanding the roles and sentiments of these groups is key to grasping the complexities of early American history and the struggle for independence.