Why did the backcountry believe in equality?

The backcountry settlers, often living in isolation from mainstream society, developed a strong belief in equality due to their shared hardships and the egalitarian nature of frontier life. They relied on one another for survival, fostering a sense of community that transcended social hierarchies. Additionally, many backcountry individuals valued personal merit and hard work over inherited status, leading to a more democratic outlook. This belief was further reinforced by their resistance to the elitism often present in urban centers.