Battles of the American Revolution

Story Map on Events of the Revolutionary War

Battle of Lexington and Concord

The battle began on April 19th, 1775 when the " shot heard around the world" was fired. The battle involved the British and the colonists. This battle marked the beginning of the Revolutionary War. The British were confronted by colonial militia members and a few casualties occurred on the American side. The British then continued to Concord where they were planning on seizing colonial weapons. The British were met by strong forces. On their retreat back to Boston, the British were attacked once again. They suffered great losses in this significant battle. This battle demonstrated how the American colonists were prepared to fight for independence.

Map of Lexington and Concord

Battle of Long Island

August 27th, 1776

The Battle of Long Island was fought in New York. The British forces were led by General William Howe. He wanted to defeat the Continental Army and take over New York City. George Washington's troops were stationed in Long Island but were no match for the British. They were outnumbered and despite their efforts, they were forced to retreat from the battle. They escaped during the night along the East River . Although the British won this battle, the Continental Army was determined to not let this loss ruin all their future victories.

Battle of Long Island Map

Battle of Saratoga

September 19th, 1777

The Battle of Saratoga was fought in 1777 in upstate New York. The British was led by General John Burgoyne. He planned to separate New England from the rest of the colonies. However, the Americans were led by General Horatio Gates and Benedict Arnold, and defeated their army by surrounding them. In October, Burgoyne was forced to surrender to the American Forces. The French also became allies with the colonies and provided them food, troops, money, and other various resources.

Battle of Saratoga Illustrated

Battle of Brandywine

The Battle of Brandywine took place on September 11th, 1777 and only lasted 11 hours. It was the longest running one day war. The British army was led by General William Howe and General Lord Charles Cornwallis. They were attempting to capture Philadelphia. On the other side, the Continental Army was led by General George Washington. He was stationed in Brandywine Creek. Washington was vulnerable on one side due to no natural land to secure around them. The British attacked and eventually, his troops were forced to surrender. Soon after this crucial battle, the British invaded Philadelphia. This battle is significant to the Revolution because it displays how despite suffering a loss, the colonies prospered in the end and gained their freedom.

Siege of Yorktown

September 14th, 1781

General George Washington led the American forces against the British forces led by General Lord Charles Cornwallis. The Americans approached, attacked and eventually forced the British army to surrender to the Colonial army. Washington worked with Marquis de Lafayette to keep Cornwallis in position and meanwhile, the French controlled Chesapeake Bay, so assistance would not reach Yorktown. This was significant because it was the last major battle of the Revolutionary War.

Map of Siege of Yorktown

Battle of Trenton

On December 26th, 1776, General George Washington ordered the Continental Army to Trenton, New Jersey. The Hessians attempted to attack Washington and the Continental Army. A Hessian lieutenant, Andreas von Wiederholdt, incorrectly informed Colonel Johann Rall that the Continental Army had surrounded and there were unable to retreat. Washington having the high ground, was able to see Colonel Johann Rall as they were going to attack. Washington and his forces were able to overpower the Hessians and prospered in the end. This battle is significant because it shows that Washington was an impressive leader and was good at what he did.

Map of Lexington and Concord

Battle of Long Island Map

Battle of Saratoga Illustrated

Map of Siege of Yorktown