The Complex Dynamics of British Attitudes Towards American Colonists

The relationship between the British Empire and its American colonies was fraught with tension and misunderstanding. Historically, the British upper class viewed the American colonists with a mix of contempt and distrust. This attitude was shaped by a variety of factors, including social class disparities, political motivations, and even economic interests.

Social Class and Self-Perception

It is commonly known that the majority of early American settlers were from the lower social classes in Britain. These migrants, driven by economic hardship and the desire for a new life, formed the backbone of the colonial populace. In contrast, the British upper class, often referred to as the 'arrogant tea sippers,' saw themselves as superior and viewed the colonists with disdain. This sentiment was pervasive in British social culture and solidified the idea that the colonists were either social outcasts or even morons, a common attitude that contributed to the impending conflict.

Early Exiles and the Founding of America

Despite the social disdain, Britain sent not only the lesser members of society but also convicts to the American colonies as early as the 17th century. By the time Australia became the primary destination for such exiles, America had already been established and populated with a diverse range of individuals. It is estimated that around 50,000 British convicts were sent to colonial America, with the majority settling in the Chesapeake colonies of Maryland and Virginia.

Colonial Governance and Governance Disputes

The British royal government, including the Royal Navy, spent substantial resources in the defense and governance of the American colonies. They provided financial subsidies to these colonies, often expecting them to adhere to certain policies, such as continuing and expanding slavery, maintaining conflicts with Native American tribes, and avoiding the acquisition of territories like Canada. These expectations often led to friction and discontent among the American colonists.

Snobbery, Political Judgement, and Hypocrisy

For some segments of the British upper class, the attitude towards American colonists was a matter of pure snobbery. Parts of the British upper classes looked down upon anyone without a title, and the perception of those at a distance as inferior. This mindset could have influenced the Privy Council’s decision to publicly humiliate Benjamin Franklin, an action they may have regretted later.

Others viewed the colonists through a political lens, despising individuals who sought to expand their holdings through conflict with Native Americans and who later complained about the cost of defending their interests. Political judgments often swayed the British perspective, particularly when the colonists seemed to want more than their fair share of benefits.

Samuel Johnson, a prominent figure of the time, critiqued the hypocrisy of American claims for liberty. He famously asked, "How is it that we hear the loudest yelps for liberty among the drivers of negroes?" This question encapsulated the complex layers of tension and disagreement between the British Crown and its American subjects.

Conclusion

The attitudes of the British towards the American colonists were multifaceted and deeply rooted. From social disdain to political motives, these attitudes profoundly influenced the relationship between the two entities. Understanding these dynamics is crucial in grasping the complex history of the American Revolution and the development of the United States. As we delve into the events of the late 18th century, it becomes evident that the roots of the American narrative extend beyond mere independence; they are intertwined with social, economic, and political forces that shape nations to this day.