Defeat in New YorkBritish sought to isolate New

England. General William Howe and Admiral

Richard Howe sail into NY harbor with 32,000 troops.

Expeditionary force includes German mercenaries called Hessians.

Successfully pushed Washington’s army across the Delaware River into Pennsylvania.

Battle of TrentonWashington crossed the Delaware River on Christmas night of 1776 and captured Trenton, NJ.

Provided a badly needed morale boost.

Fight for PhiladelphiaBritish forces under General Howe captured Philadelphia in 1777.

Philadelphia was then the American capital.

Victory at SaratogaAmerican troops defeated General

Burgoyne on October 17, 1777.Surrender would dramatically

change Britain’s war strategy. British forces would now stay on

the coast where they could be close to supplies and the British navy.

France recognized American independence and now agreed to support the Revolution.

Winter at Valley ForgeValley Forge-Continental Army’s

camp during the winter of 1777-1778.

Marked a low point for the Patriots, but showed their resilience.

2500 American soldiers perish from conditions.

Colonial Life During the Revolution

Congress printed paper money to pay for the war and resulted in inflation.

Inflation-when prices rise.Some government officials engaged in profiteering.

Profiteering-selling of scarce goods for profit.

Civilians at War5000 African Americans served in

the Continental Army.

Women played a key role. Most famous was “Molly Pitcher” at the Battle of Monmouth.