At first, the British plan was working, with British victories at Ticonderoga and Hubbardton. Burgoyne's army continually pushed back the Americans southward along the Hudson River with only minor casualties. Then at the Battle of Bennington marked the first significant American victory, when General Stark led the American troops to victory against a British. | |
In an attempt to slow the British troops down, the American General Schuyler put 1000 men under the command of Major General Benedict Arnold. These troops moved west to prevent British attacks on St. Leger's eastward advance along the Mohawk River. Arnold returned with his detachment after saving St. Leger in time serve in the Battle of Saratoga. |
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At the Battle of Freeman's Farm, the new commander of the American army, General Horatio Gates, lost an indecisive battle. During this First Battle of Saratoga, fought 19 September 1777, the American forces lost ground to the British forces under General Burgoyne. A major disagreement in leadership and personalities led to a argument between Generals Gates and Arnold. General Gates relieved Arnold of command as a result. The Battle of Bemis Heights was the second battle of Saratoga, taking place October 7th when Burgoyne forcefully attacked the rebels defense with his tired, put down, and worn out army. At Bemis Heights, Gate's defensive stradegy insured a victory for the Patriots. However, Arnold saw an opportunity to seize the offensive while Burgoyne was vulnerable and led a counterattack. This bold move so badly wounded the British forces that Burgoyne surrendered days later at Saratoga.
After this victory for the Americans; the Americans went on to win the Revolutionary War. |