Revolutionary War was really a Civil War
By Warner M. Montgomery
Warner@TheColumbiaStar.com

Dr. Jack Meyer

The American Revolution was a bloody civil war with neighbor fighting neighbor, brother fighting brother in backcountry South Carolina, claimed Dr. Jack A. Meyer, retired USC history professor, in a talk to the Columbia Torch Club last week. Not everyone was fighting for freedom and liberty against the Redcoats as is traditionally believed.

Whigs fought Tories throughout the state in scores of small skirmishes. Whigs sought freedom from England; Tories fought to keep the crown in America. Seldom were British regulars involved.

In nearby Fairfield County at Mobley's Meeting House in June 1780, less than 200 Whigs defeated less than 100 Tories. At Gowen's Old Fort in Spartanburg County the next month, 32 Whigs defeated 200 Tories. After each battle the combatants would limp home and resume their normal chores.

Dr. Meyer said backcounty folks fought for or against liberty for economic, political, and personal reasons. Those who owed money to the lowcountry elite became Tories as did those who opposed the taxes imposed by the SC government. Those who opposed the taxes imposed by King George became Whigs as did those who were mistreated by the British Army.

Many on both sides had personal feuds to settle. Some who felt over-charged by Whig merchants joined the Tories. Some switched sides to save their homes from plunder.

After the Peace Treaty of 1783, property of most losing Tories was confiscated and they left the new nation. Those too poor to leave faded into the woodwork and eventually became loyal citizens. However, their ancestors are often disappointed to find they aren't qualified for the DAR.

The Torch Club is an international speakers club. The Columbia chapter meets every month at the Palmetto Club. Membership is open to anyone who enjoys speaking and listening to well-prepared talks. For information, call Ed Latimer, 803-776-4765.