The American Revolutionary War in Canadian Schools: A Neutrality of Views

When discussing the American Revolutionary War, Canadians are often reminded of its historical significance. This war, which took place from 1775 to 1783, had a profound effect on the formation of both the United States and Canada. While Americans study the war as part of their national heritage, Canadians have a unique perspective due to the significant role that the United Empire Loyalists played in the early history of their country.

The war's aftermath brought approximately 88,400 United Empire Loyalists to Canada, many of whom were forced to leave the United States due to their support for the British cause. These refugees were central in shaping Canadian identity and culture, significantly contributing to the development of the Anglo-Canadian experience.

A Significant Migration of United Empire Loyalists

According to historical sources, the number of those who fled to Canada during and after the American Revolutionary War is staggering. Approximately 61,000 white loyalists, along with 17,000 slaves, 3,500 free black loyalists, and 2,000 enslaved Black individuals, emigrated to Canada. Additionally, 42,000 white loyalists and 3,400 native Iroquois also made this journey, marking a significant demographic shift in the Canadian region.

“Patriots subjected Loyalists to public humiliation and violence. Many Loyalists found their property vandalized, looted, and burned. The patriots controlled public discourse. Woe to the citizen who publicly proclaimed sympathy to Britain.”

These events led to families being divided between those who supported the revolution and those who supported the British. This includes a famous example where Benjamin Franklin's son, William, supported the British during the war, while his father was a prominent patriot.

Impact and Repercussions of the War

The Sullivan campaign, ordered by George Washington, further exacerbated tensions. This military expedition destroyed Iroquois villages, leaving their crops, villages, and chattels in ruins. As a result, the strength of the Iroquois Confederacy was severely weakened, and many became refugees in Ontario. This event not only affected the Iroquois but also highlights the brutal nature of the war on both sides.

“The expedition severely damaged the Iroquois nations' economies by burning their crops, villages, and chattels, thus ruining the Iroquois technological infrastructure. With the Haudenosaunee shelter gone and food supplies destroyed, the strength of the Iroquois Confederacy was broken.”

British Forces and Casualties

On the other hand, British forces were also guilty of atrocities. Many American civilians suffered brutal murders, as seen during the Boston Massacre and the Cherry Valley massacre. Therefore, it's important to recognize that neither side can be considered the epitome of goodness during this period.

The past, however, is the past. We should not dwell on the grievances of the past but learn from them to prevent similar injustices in the future.

Further Reading

For those interested in delving deeper into this complex historical event, there are numerous resources and articles available. Some interesting reads include:

Crawford Expedition - Wikipedia Gnadenhutten massacre - Wikipedia Loyalists in Canada Category: Massacres in the American Revolutionary War - Wikipedia Loyalists Fence-sitters and Patriots [] United Empire Loyalist - Wikipedia American Revolution - Wikipedia

In conclusion, the American Revolutionary War is an essential part of both American and Canadian history. While the focus on this war in Canadian schools might differ from that in American schools, it remains a crucial chapter that shaped the identities and histories of both countries.