When the idea of revolution became prominent in the colonies, divisions began within the colonists themselves. The Patriots and Loyalists were established; the Patriots being those who wanted independence from England, and the Loyalists those who believed in remaining loyal to the crown. Everyone else was considered neutral on the subject, though it was usually those directly unaffected by British rule. Most of the Patriots were poor, because they were so heavily affected by British taxes, and would greatly benefit from independence economically-wise. Most of the Loyalists were rich, because they were not very affected by British taxes, and had no reason to change what was beneficial for them. An effect of the war, the employment rate declined,
