The Battle of Saratoga - September 19, 1777
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When fighting began again in the spring of 1777, Britain’s plan was to cut New England off from the rest of the colonies. To do this, British troops commanded by General John Burgoyne planned to meet General Howe’s troops at Albany, New York. However, General Howe changed his plans and decided to attack Philadelphia first. The city was the American capital, so Howe hoped its capture would hurt Patriot morale. Howe easily captured Philadelphia, where he and his troops settled comfortably for the winter. The Continental Congress fled the city. While it looked as though things were going well for the British, General Burgoyne and his troops were struggling in New York. Because General Howe had decided to go to Philadelphia, he never met up with Burgoyne in New York. General Burgoyne had limited supplies and limited reinforcements. |
In early October, with only 5,000 men left, Burgoyne found himself at Saratoga, New York, surrounded by an American force of 17,000 under the newly appointed general Horatio Gates. Burgoyne tried twice to break through Continental lines to reach Albany but he could not. On October 17, 1777, General Burgoyne surrendered to General Gates.
The Battle of Saratoga is considered the turning point of the Revolutionary War. News of the American victory encouraged the colonists and surprised the British and Europeans. Most importantly, the victory at Saratoga convinced France to support the American cause.
The Battle of Saratoga is considered the turning point of the Revolutionary War. News of the American victory encouraged the colonists and surprised the British and Europeans. Most importantly, the victory at Saratoga convinced France to support the American cause.