The announcement of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, in Philadelphia. Hulton Archive via Getty Images May 7, 2026 The American Revolution’s triumphant story of democracy and freedom overlooks loyalists who paid a steep price for allegiance to Britain Kimberly Nath, San Juan College Matthias Aspden was a wealthy Philadelphia businessman who remained faithful to Britain. As a result, he lost his home, property and sense of belonging, and died in exile.
