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Explore critical events in the Revolutionary War, including the British occupation of New York, Nathan Hale's heroic sacrifice, Thomas Paine's inspiring writings, Washington's surprise attacks, the turning point at Saratoga, and the role of European allies. Gain insights into the strategies, victories, and alliances that shaped the outcome of the war.
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Questions • Where would the British invade after being expelled from Boston? • Who is Nathan Hale? How would he become an American Hero? • Who wrote the Crisis? • What was the purpose of The Crisis?
Retreat From New York • After the British leave Boston they set course for New York City • Why would the British choose to invade New York? • British gathered on Staten Island. Washington gathered his forces in Brooklyn.
Troop Strength • British-Led by Howe have 34,000 well trained troops plus a fleet with 10,000 sailors. • Washington has 20,000 ill prepared troops and no Navy. • What do you predict will happen?
British occupy New York • Washington is easily defeated in New York. • He is forced to retreat and pursued out of New York, across New Jersey, and into Pennsylvania before the end of the year. • Patriots spirits were low.
Nathan Hale • Young officer from Connecticut. • Volunteered for a very dangerous spy mission and was caught. • What do you think the British do to American spies that they capture?
Nathan Hale • Hale becomes an American Legend by showing composure at his own execution • He says “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country”
Written by Thomas Paine during the army’s retreat from New York. Intended to raise the spirits of the men. “These are the times that try men’s souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of their country; but he who stands now, deserves the love and thanks of men and woman.” The Crisis
Questions • What two cities did Washington capture in the very late part of 1776 and early 1777? • Why was Saratoga considered the turning in the Revolution? • Name three European men that helped Washington’s army and explain what they did?
Surprise for the British • Washington’s army needs a victory. • Many men want to quit fighting and go home. • He plans a surprise attack on the Hessian mercenaries in the city of Trenton in the early morning of December 26, 1776 • Why might this be a great time to attack?
Quick Victory • Washington captures 1,408 men and 39 officers in about one hour. • History background on P.181 • Washington then successfully attacks the British in Princeton on January 3.
British Strategy for Spring 1777 • Capture NY State • This would divide the colonies.
British StrategyBurgoyne’s PlanThree pronged attack on Albany
Turning Point • British lose a large fighting force • Patriots hopes are raised • European nations will be willing to ally with Americans • New England no longer threatened
French Alliance • France becomes the first nation to sign a treaty with the United States • France and it’s allies in the Netherlands, and Spain, went to war with Britain in Europe and the Caribbean. • Britain could spare fewer troops to fight in North America.
Marquis de Lafayette • French Noble that helped the American cause with money and military expertise. Became very close friends with General Washington.
Thaddeus Kosciusko Engineer that built fortifications at West Point. Casimir Pulaski Polish Cavalry officer that trained American cavalry units. Help from Poland
Germany • Friedrich von Steuben • Trained Washington’s army in 1778. • Improved their drill, discipline, aim, and fighting with bayonets
