In early June 1776, just weeks before Congress would adopt the Declaration of Independence, Philadelphia’s American Daily Advertiser printed a fiery essay from an author who signed off as “A Watchman,” calling out a pattern of Loyalist obstruction.
Loyalists, also referred to as “Tories,” were American colonists who remained loyal to the British crown.
Time and time again, loyalists went back on their word, with the author calling out that they would always find a new line they refuse to cross. And with every advance by the Patriots, those who supported independence from British rule would create excuses to avoid opposition.
“In Pennsylvania, they tell us to fight till we are half cut off, and never to relax any of our claims, but by no means ever to think of independence,” the Watchman wrote, later adding, “And now when a declaration of independence is absolutely necessary for our safety and future welfare, they tell us to rely upon our arms and Great Britain will soon come down to our terms.”
By publishing this essay, the Watchman shared a reminder that common people made up nine-tenths of the population; therefore, why should they be left out of decisions about the country in which they resided?
“Strange that the majority should yield to the minority in a matter of so much consequence!”
And given that the common folk made up the vast majority, the Watchman called out those loyalists who continued to side with Britain for forfeiting the public’s trust, debunking the argument of principles that their actions were more like self-interest.
Weeks later, Congress published the Declaration of Independence, turning the tables on loyalists because complacency was no longer an option.
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