A Critical Time 1776

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZfRaWAtBVg

Why it Matters Now we have proclaimed independence, now what? We must fight the powerful British army! George has a lot of work ahead

British Strengths American Strengths Large Population Knew land formation Formed Government George Washington Strong Navy (No. 1) Fighting what they believe in Organized Military Experienced Military leaders Support of most citizens

Retreat from New York June 1776 British fleet sail into New York under General Howe Washington was expecting the British fleet Washington has 20,000 poorly trained soldiers vs. 34,000 trained British soldiers August 1776 the British drove Washington out of Brooklyn in the Battle of Long Island Washington leaves New York City with British chasing https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ou0nBuCxRyA

“I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country” Nathan Hale “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country”

Surprises for the British December 1776 British is preparing to take over Philadelphia Patriots been on run and spirits were low Many Patriots Deserted.

Thomas paine writes “The Crisis” “These are the times that try men’s souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of his country; but he that stands it now deserves the love and thanks of man and woman” It worked

Washington led 2400 men across the river in small boats Crossing the Delaware December 1776 Washington led 2400 men across the river in small boats Attacked Trenton Victory! Washington captures 1000 Hessians! Trickery wins for Americans https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PNj o73m8ZuI

Saratoga: A turning point British General John Burgoyne planned on cutting New England off from the rest of the states Carrying baggage of his finest personal stuff and supplies running short General Gates had 6000 men surround Burgoyne and his British force at Saratoga Burgoyne surrenders on October 17, 1777 Turning Point of War https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IoExfycqz8Y

Results of the Battle Ended the idea of an easy victory for British Ended threat of British in New England Lifted American’s spirit Helped convince Europeans that Americans had a chance of winning which encouraged France to enter into war with Britain and help Americans.

French Alliance Encouraged by Ben Franklin, France enters into war with Britain and to help the Americans This means fighting on two fronts Which front do you think Britain is going to place most effort?

European Volunteers Marquis de Lafayette

Thaddeus Kosciusko Helped build forts including West Point

Baron Von Steuben German that helped train the Continental Army Prussian nobleman named Baron Friedrich von Steuben showed up in Valley Forge on Feb. 23, 1778, and taught the Continental Army to use bayonets for killing, not cooking

Valley Forge 1777-78 winter Built Valley Forge in Pennsylvania Out in the cold without sufficient food and clothing British snug in Philadelphia dancing and partying Women collected food, medicine, warm clothes and ammunition to help soldiers including Martha Washington Continental Army survives but is considered the low point of the war. Why do you think Washington wanted to stay camped outside of Philadelphia during this harsh winter?