Reasons why GB lost the war

Question 1

British Government

Answer 1

lacked clarity, poorly planned campaigns permitted by gov, underestimated colonists, faced multiple enemies, Lord North not a war leader

Question 2

British military leadership

Answer 2

British fighting war far from home, naval power effective along coast but inland fighting proved difficult, over-ambitious plans, GB troops had no cause to fight, Howe didn’t make use of his early successes as his aim was to force a negotiated settlement, lacked decisive strategy and coordination

Question 3

Hessians and Native Americans

Answer 3

Brutality of Native Americans and Hessians turns neutrals to patriots, not as loyal as other troops- Hessians only wanted money and Natives often deserted

Question 4

Loyalists

Answer 4

Varied backgrounds/ motivations of loyalists meant they weren’t unified opposition, often motivated by local concerns, unable to organise on national level, relied on Britain to provide leadership and protection, not as numerous or useful as expected