Overview
This lecture covers the main factors that led to the American victory in the Revolutionary War, including internal challenges, military strategies, and crucial international alliances.
Colonial Support and Opposition
- Not all colonists supported independence; only about half were active patriots.
- Loyalists (colonists loyal to Britain) and neutral parties created internal opposition to independence.
Early Struggles of the Continental Army
- The Continental Congress appointed George Washington as commander of the Continental Army.
- The Continental Army was initially poorly trained, under-equipped, and regionally divided.
- Many soldiers deserted or resisted leaving their home colonies.
British Advantages and Strategy
- Britain had the world’s strongest military, with experienced soldiers and 60,000 American Loyalists.
- British General William Howe landed in New York with 10,000 troops early in the war.
American Military Strategy and Turning Points
- Washington adopted a war of attrition strategy, wearing the British down over time.
- Black Americans fought on both sides; about 5,000 fought for the patriots following promises of freedom.
- The tide turned with Washington’s victory against Hessian troops at the Delaware River in 1776.
- The decisive turning point was the American victory at the Battle of Saratoga in 1777.
International Alliances and Final Victory
- The Saratoga victory convinced France to ally with the Americans against Britain.
- Spain and Holland joined the conflict against Britain, further stretching British resources.
- French military and naval support was crucial in the American victory at the Battle of Yorktown in 1781.
- The 1783 Paris Peace Treaty ended the war, with Britain recognizing American independence and setting the Mississippi River as the western boundary.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Patriots — Colonists who supported independence from Britain.
- Loyalists — Colonists who remained loyal to the British crown.
- War of Attrition — Military strategy focused on wearing out the enemy over time.
- Battle of Saratoga — 1777 battle that convinced France to ally with the American patriots.
- Battle of Yorktown — 1781 final major battle resulting in British surrender.
- Paris Peace Treaty (1783) — Treaty ending the Revolutionary War and recognizing American independence.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review Unit 3 Topic 5 of the AP U.S. History curriculum for further study.