why would loyalist have been intimidated to speak out against the patriots?

Answer 1

Loyalists were intimidated by the Patriots because they did not want to break away from Britain, however they were among people that wanted freedom from the mother country. Therefore differing opinions lead Loyalists to suffer from slander, vandalism of their homes or workplaces, and discrimination from society. This is comparable of today's politics, regarding the 2020 presidential elections. Some individuals may fear expressing their favorite candidate because of the backlash they may receive from holding an unpopular political stance.