Chapter 9 Lesson 2

1. Chapter 9Lesson 2 Fighting for Independence

2. Comparing Armies • The Continental Army which was led by George Washington had no uniforms or guns. • Some fought in the French and Indian War, but many had no training. • Congress had little money and supplies to pay for everything the army needed.

3. A Strong Enemy • The British army was made up of experienced soldiers. • Mercenaries (hired soldiers) were also used by the British soldiers. They were also known as Hessians. • One disadvantage they faced was getting the supplies they needed to fight the war because they were so many miles away from home.

4. A Surprise Attack • On Christmas Night Patriot troops crossed the icy Delaware and marched nine miles to Trenton to surprise attack the sleeping Hessians troops. • The attack only lasting one hour before the Hessian troops surrendered. • This victory gave American soldiers hope for the future.

5. The Battle of Saratoga • The Continental army forces circled General Burgoyne’s army near the town of Saratoga. Burgoyne and his soldiers could not break through American lines. • The Battle of Saratoga was actually two battles that took place over three weeks. • In the second battle, General Benedict Arnold led a group of soldiers in a daring attack.

6. The Battle of Saratoga….. • On October 17, Burgoyne surrendered to the American troops. • The British loss at Saratoga was a turning point in the Revolution. The Americans saw it as a chance that they could win the war.

7. Winter at Valley Forge • The winter at Valley Forge was tough for the Americans soldiers. Food and supplies were very limited. The soldiers looked for ways to boost their morale. • The arrival of volunteers from other countries helped to build the Continental armies momentum.

8. Contributions from Other Nations • Benjamin Franklin negotiated with France to gain their support. He argued that France would benefit from beating their old enemy. • In 1779, Spain declared war on Britain. Bernardo Galavez gave guns food and money to the Americans. Later, the troops joined the fight. • Netherlands gave a loan to Congress • The Russians helped keep the British from blocking trade with America