New York Flashcards
(3 cards)
1
Q
When was the battle of New York
A
1776
2
Q
detail the battle of New York
A
- Washington had 20,000 men and so should have abandoned New York- as Britain had control over the sea and this was indefensible
- Washington was commanded to fight by congress
- Howe defeated the Americans with 2000 casualties- 6x as many as the British
- Howe was cautious and his inaction led to Washington withdrawing his troops as a result of a dense fog
- overall success for the British, Washington withdrew troops successfully due to Howe’s inaction, so arguably some success for America (though very little)
3
Q
Why was this so significant?
A
- many casualties
- NYC was a key strategic target due to its location as a naval base and commercial centre
- by seizing New York, they effectively cut off an important part of the American economy and communications network
- deeply demoralising to army
- but, Washington’s ability to keep the army intact showed good military leadership and this was critical for the continued fight for independence
