What is the significance of Ontario's provincial Motto "Loyal she began, loyal she remains?"

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pohnpei397 | College Teacher | (Level 3) Distinguished Educator

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The significance of the Province of Ontario’s motto traces back to the time of the American Revolution.  When the American colonies were preparing to try to break away from the United Kingdom, not all colonists wanted to do so.  It is estimated that as many as one-third of the colonists in the colonies that broke away took the side of the British.  Of course, this led to tensions with those of their neighbors who did want to break away and become independent.

After the American colonies achieved their independence, many of the Loyalists left the country.  Some were worried for their safety.  Others simply did not want to live in the breakaway country.  Many of these people moved to what is now Ontario.  To emphasize their loyalty to the British crown, they adopted this motto. 

Thus, this motto is meant to highlight the fact that the people of Ontario remained loyal to the UK while the colonists in the 13 colonies rebelled.

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