Free Republic

Loyalists, those colonists that affirmed Britain’s authority over the colonies, were described at the time as "persons inimical to the liberties of America." In the republican ideology of the new nation, tories were vilified as offenders against the public good who acted out of ignorance, cupidity, or moral obtuseness. But if the political complexion between 1775 and 1783 is accurately described as equally divided among patriots, loyalists, and those diffident or disaffected, understanding loyalism is essential to unlocking the puzzle of revolutionary America. Between 60,000 and 80,000 Americans chose to go into exile after 1783. Among these were many of...

Who was Lee of Fort Lee, Votee of Votee Park and Merritt of Camp Merritt? The Name-Dropper gives you the lowdown on some of the people whose names you see on public statues, memorial plaques, park signs, highways and even some local streets around North Jersey. Have suggestions? Email them to features@northjersey.com and put Name-Dropper in the subject field.Everybody knows that Franklin Turnpike was named for the grand old man of the American Revolution, Benjamin Franklin, right?You remember Ben, the heavyset guy who flew that kite in the electrical storm, who invented bifocals and the concept of the lending library....

An 83-year-old Beverly man has died after suffering severe burns when his kilt caught fire while he was burning leaves and brush in his yard last week. Arthur Ciampa’s 19-year-old neighbor, Evan Smith, rushed to his aid on Thursday after hearing screams next door, Beverly police said.

We interrupt this thread to announce that as of June 5, 2009, I have become a life inmate in the institution of marriage with Mrs. Loyalist. That is all.

Venezuela fears coup as loyalists stand firm By Jan McGirk Latin America Correspondent 15 June 2002 Venezuela is bracing for another coup attempt against the leftist President, Hugo Chavez, today as a flurry of clandestine videos, pamphlets and e-mail speculation feeds hysteria. People have been stockpiling weapons and food, wary of a repeat of April's violence in which at least 70 people were killed in street protests and looting. Pro-government supporters have converged on Caracas to keep a constant vigil outside the Presidential Palace. Massed protests calling for the President to resign are scheduled for today. The Defence Minister, General...