American Revolution Flashcards
What was the British plan regarding New York City during the American Revolution?
The British planned to capture New York City to split the colonies in two.
What did Washington and his troops do to counter the British in New York?
Washington and his troops fought a series of battles around New York, including on Long Island.
What significant event occurred when the Patriots were losing badly?
British General Howe called a halt to fighting, allowing Washington to sneak his troops off the island at night.
What miraculous event helped Washington’s troops escape Long Island?
A fog descended on the remaining men crossing the river, aiding their escape.
Who was Nathan Hale and what were his last words?
Nathan Hale was caught spying on the British and sentenced to be hanged. His last words were, ‘I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.’
What was the purpose of Thomas Paine’s pamphlet ‘The Crisis’?
It was written to raise morale among the troops.
What happened during the Battle of Trenton?
On Christmas night 1776, Washington and his troops surprised British mercenaries, capturing nearly nine hundred Hessian soldiers and a large supply of weapons in just one hour of fighting.
What are Hessians?
Hessians are mercenaries or soldiers who are paid to fight.
What was the British plan for the Battles of Saratoga?
The plan was for a three-pronged attack to gain control of the Hudson River by Generals Howe, St. Leger, and Burgoyne.
What happened to General Howe during the Battles of Saratoga?
General Howe captured the American capital of Philadelphia instead of going to Albany.
Who stopped General St. Leger during the Battles of Saratoga?
General St. Leger was stopped by Benedict Arnold.
What was the outcome of the Battle of Saratoga on October 17, 1777?
British General Burgoyne was surrounded by American General Horatio Gates, leading to the surrender of over 5,700 British troops.
Why was the Battle of Saratoga considered a turning point in the war?
The victory convinced France to support the Americans, as Ben Franklin was already in Paris seeking assistance.
What is an alliance?
A formal agreement between two powers to work together towards a common goal.
Who was Marquis de Lafayette?
A Frenchman who became a high-ranking officer in Washington’s army.
Which foreign figures helped train the Continental Army?
Thaddeus Kosciusko, Casimir Pulaski (from Poland), and Friedrich von Steuben (from Germany).
Which countries fought against Britain during the American Revolution?
Spain and the Netherlands fought against Britain in Europe and the Caribbean.
What financial support did Spanish and Cuban ladies provide?
They donated $28 million in money and jewelry to the cause for American independence.
What was Valley Forge?
The winter camp for the Patriots where Washington and his troops suffered through the cruel winter of 1777-1778.
How many African Americans fought on the Patriot side during the war?
About 7,000 African Americans fought on the Patriot side during the war.
What was the status of African American enlistment by the war’s end?
Every state but South Carolina enlisted African Americans to fight.
Who were Peter Salem and Lemuel Hayes?
They were African American Patriots.
What legislative change occurred in northern states during the war?
Northern states started to phase out slavery, with a 1780 Pennsylvania law making buying new slaves illegal.
