Background of the Battle of Yorktown
The Battle of Yorktown, also known as the Siege of Yorktown, was a decisive battle in the American Revolutionary War. It took place from September 28 to October 19, 1781, near Yorktown, Virginia. The battle was fought between the combined forces of the French Army and Navy, led by General Rochambeau and Admiral de Grasse, and the British Army, led by General Cornwallis.
Forces Involved
The French and American forces had a total of approximately 17,600 men, including 8,000 French soldiers and 9,600 American troops. The British forces, on the other hand, numbered around 8,000 men under the command of General Cornwallis.
| Forces | Number of Men | Commander |
|---|---|---|
| French and American | 17,600 | General Rochambeau and General Washington |
| British | 8,000 | General Cornwallis |
Strategic Positioning
The British had fortified Yorktown, a coastal town, with strong defenses. However, they were cut off from supplies and reinforcements due to the French naval blockade. The French and American forces, on the other hand, had a strategic advantage as they were able to encircle the British army and cut off their escape routes.
The Siege
The siege began on September 28, 1781, when the French and American forces arrived at Yorktown. The British army was trapped within the town’s defenses, with no means of escape. The French and American forces laid siege to the town, bombarding it with artillery fire and cutting off supplies.
The Turning Point
The turning point of the battle came on October 14, 1781, when the French fleet arrived off the coast of Virginia. The arrival of the French fleet forced the British navy to retreat, leaving the British army isolated and vulnerable.
The Surrender
On October 17, 1781, General Cornwallis, realizing that his army was doomed, sent a surrender message to General Washington. The British army formally surrendered on October 19, 1781, marking the end of the Siege of Yorktown and a significant victory for the American Revolutionary forces.
Aftermath
The Battle of Yorktown was a pivotal moment in the American Revolutionary War. It led to the eventual recognition of American independence by Great Britain and the signing of the Treaty of Paris in 1783. The victory at Yorktown also bolstered the confidence of the American people and their leaders, paving the way for the formation of the United States of America.
Legacy
The Battle of Yorktown has left a lasting legacy in American history. It is often considered the last major battle of the Revolutionary War and a symbol of American resilience and determination. The site of the battle, Yorktown Victory Center, is now a national historical park that commemorates the event and educates visitors about the American Revolutionary War.
