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The United Empire Loyalists: A Chronicle of the Great Migration [1920 ed.]

Written by W. Stewart (William Stewart) Wallace

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American loyalistsUnited Empire loyalists

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About this book

"The United Empire Loyalists: A Chronicle of the Great Migration" by W. Stewart Wallace is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The work delves into the experiences of the United Empire Loyalists, those who remained loyal to the British Crown during the American Revolution and subsequently migrated from the United States to Canada. It explores the broader impacts of this migration on both Canadian and American history, particularly focusing on the social, political, and demographic changes that ensued as a result. The opening of the book sets the stage by highlighting the historical treatment of the Loyalists by various historians, particularly noting how their stories were often distorted or overlooked. Wallace discusses the significant misrepresentation faced by the Loyalists in American accounts of the Revolution, where they were depicted negatively and as a marginalized group. The author intends to provide a more balanced perspective, illuminating the complex dynamics of loyalty, politics, and migration during this pivotal time in history. He emphasizes the transformative influence the Loyalists had on the formation of Canada, changing its demographic landscape and contributing to the development of British North America.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The United Empire Loyalists: A Chronicle of the Great Migration [1920 ed.], written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • advanced
  • Historical
  • Informative
  • Serious

W. Stewart Wallace's "The United Empire Loyalists" is a pivotal early 20th-century historical account that re-examines the experiences of those who remained loyal to the British Crown during the American Revolution. The book challenges prevailing American historical narratives that often misrepresented or overlooked the Loyalists, portraying them negatively. Wallace aims to provide a more balanced perspective, detailing their forced migration from the United States to British North America and their subsequent foundational role in shaping Canadian identity and demographics. It highlights the profound social, political, and demographic transformations ignited by this significant exodus, asserting the Loyalists' enduring legacy on both Canadian and American history.

“History, often written by the victors, had long obscured the profound sacrifices of those who chose loyalty to the Crown.”

Key themes

Loyalty vs. Rebellion
This theme explores the profound moral, political, and social choices faced by colonists during the American Revolution. It delves into the motivations for remaining loyal to the British Crown, contrasting them with the revolutionary fervor, and examines the consequences of such allegiance, including persecution and displacement.
National Identity and Nation-Building
This theme highlights the pivotal role of the United Empire Loyalists in the formation of Canada. Wallace argues that their migration and subsequent settlement were not just an escape, but a deliberate act of establishing a distinct British North American identity, separate from the republican ideals of the United States. It explores how their values and institutions laid the groundwork for Canadian political and social structures.
Historical Interpretation and Bias
A central tenet of Wallace's work is the critique of biased historical accounts, particularly those from the American perspective, which often vilified or ignored the Loyalists. This theme examines how history is written, the influence of national narratives, and the importance of challenging dominant interpretations to achieve a more comprehensive and balanced understanding of the past.

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How does Wallace challenge prevailing historical narratives, and what are the implications of his corrective approach?

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