Revolutionary Loyalists, also known as Tories, were American colonists who remained loyal to the British Crown during the American Revolution. They opposed the Patriot cause and were often persecuted for their beliefs. The term TORY is derived from the Middle Irish word 'toraidhe' which means outlaw or robber. Revolutionary Loyalists were often seen as traitors by the Patriots and were subject to harsh treatment, including confiscation of property and exile.