The Battle of White Plains

1. The Battle of White Plains By: Celeste Smith

2. Who was involved?

3. Objectives & Military systems • For awhile, Washington had been trying to stress the importance of establishing a “permanent army.” • For about a month Washington and his army watched Howe’s movements.

4. Experience

5. Where was it? • White plains, NY • October 28, 1776 • On the 31st, Washington withdrew his troops about five miles into the hills

6. Environment • During this battle a big storm built up and it rained heavily and consistently. • Lots of hills allowed each side to retreat or plan attacks.

7. The enemy’s objectives & mission • Before the day of the battle Howe had two divisions to approach the hill where Washington and his men were. They did it with caution and success. The Americans retreated and Chatterton’s Hill was under British control. • Washington had to watch “in anguish” as he lost his men to the opponents.

8. Outcome of battle • Casualties- about 200 Americans and about 300 British soldiers died • Chatterton’s Hill was taken over by the British

9. Why should I know about this battle? • This battle is a mark of a loss on our side. The Battle of White Plains is relevant to this class because no matter what war or battle a country or side participates in, there will be ups and downs. Sometimes it takes a loss for a side to back on their feet. This could have been what Washington thought when he decided to push forward and attack Hessian forces in New Jersey

10. Aftermath Once the British gained Chatterton’s Hill, Washington decided to retreat. About 300 British were killed and wounded while about 200 Americans were. It was not until December 26 that the Americans launched a “daring attack” on the Hessian forces in Trenton, NJ, to gain power.

11. Works Cited • http://www.theamericanrevolution.org/battles/bat_wpla.asp • http://www.georgewashington.si.edu/life/chrono_military.html • www.answers.com/topic/battle-of-white-plains • www.britishbattles.com/whiteplains.htm