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Apr 27, 1176
Battle Long Island
The British Army successfully moved against the American Continental Army led by George Washington. The battle was part of a British campaign to seize control of New York and thereby isolate New England from the rest of the colonies. Washington’s defeat could have led to the surrender of his entire force, but his ingenuity instead allowed him to escape and continue the fight. -
Battle of Bunker Hill
The British defeated the Americans in Massachusetts. The colonial forces inflicted significant casualties against the enemy, and it provided them with an important confidence boost. Major General William Howe and Brigadier General Robert Pigot landed on the Charlestown Peninsula then marched to Breed's Hill. The battle was a significant morale-builder for the inexperienced Americans, convinving them that patriotic dedication could overcome superior British military might. -
Battle of Trenton
Washington defeated a formidable garrison of Hessian mercenaries before withdrawing. The victories reasserted American control of much of New Jersey and greatly improved the morale and unity of the colonial army and militias. Colonel Henry Knox’s cannons fired on the garrison. -
The Battle of Monmouth
General George Washington lead the Continental Army to attack the British Army commanded by Lieutenant General Sir Henry Clinton. Intended that the withdrawing British army would travel directly to New Yor4k via the sea. The lack of transport would force Clinton to change his plans. The story "Molly Pitcher" bringing soldier water is a very popular story. -
Battle of Cowpens
This American win was important, especially after the several British victories in the South. American General, Daniel Morgan, led his troops into a re positioning, which ultimately tricked the Britsh. The British suffered a great loss with 800 casualties compared to the Americans 100. The American rifle, often made fun of, proved very effective in this battle. Americans were proud bec uase this was their first win without any help from surprise attacks or geography. -
Battle of Yorktown
With the help of the French, the Americans won this decisive battle. The leader of the British troops, General Cornwallis, surrended after three days of fighting and two of his defenses captured. His army suffered cannon bombardment night and day. The French troops had snuck in to aid the Americans and the British were not able to obtain any outside aid. This war ended the fighting in the colonies, though some still occurred on the sea. It was a great relief to the American and the French.
