I participated in an interesting discussion thread on a FB alternate history group speculating about what if Britain crushed the American rebellion in 1776.
It almost happened.
When Lord Howe arrived in New York Harbor in June of 1776 he had a fleet of 70 + ships and an army of 25,000 men. He walloped Washington in one battle after another only to see him escape time and again. Howe chased him up the Hudson Valley and into New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Realizing that his army was about to melt away, a desperate Washington struck at Trenton and then Princeton. This act saved the revolution.
Had How pursued Washington more vigorously in New York, or pursued him into Pennsylvania, he'd be known as the victor over the American rebels.
Now, on the discussion thread a contributor asked if George and Parliament could have reestablished the King's Peace in a manner that wold ensure that's peace's long term viability. This is precisely what they sought to do.
General Howe was chosen because it was thought he could bring about a peaceful settlement. He had fought in American during the Seven Years War, he was Wolfe's number two man at Quebec, married an American and was very sympathetic to the Americans in parliament. He was sent to America to be a peace maker, the massive military force he brought with him was the Crown's 'big stick'.
As for the fate of the rebels, it is hard to see Howe allowing mass hangings, perhaps exile for Mr. Washington, Hancock and the Signers but not hangings. Its easy to be magnanimous in victory.
As to what would have happened next, Americans would have undoubtedly continue to steam over the Appalachians against the Crown's wishes. As they pushed west against Indians, Spain and France endless trouble would have ensued. Early on in the new century, Britain may well have wondered if keeping the colonies was worth it.
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