1. Revolutionary War
Section 4.3

2. Main Idea
While the colonies and the British began with different strengths and weaknesses, the Revolutionary War demonstrated Washington’s great leadership.

3. The Match-up! Great Britain 13 Colonies 7.5 million (population)
Established army
World’s best navy
Lots of $
Hired mercenaries from other country
Many colonists stayed loyal
3,000 miles from home
Problems in Europe
Manufactured goods
2.5 million
Militias
Defensive war
Highly dispersed population
Aid from foreign nations
Great leadership
Abundant agriculture
Colonies often squabbled
Lack of $
No manufactured goods
Fighting for LIBERTY!

4. Women in War Officially neither side allowed women to fight.
Some women disguised themselves and took to battle.
Women contributed in many other ways.
Molly “Pitcher” ran water to Continental troops during hot battles.
Sybil Ludington spied upon the Redcoats for Washington.
Others worked as nurses and made clothing for soldiers.

5. African Americans AA fought on both sides of the Revolution.
The UK offered slaves their freedom if they joined the British Army.
Although accepted on both sides, many AA soldiers were treated harshly and were forced into unglamorous duties (cooking, digging, etc.)

6. Important Battles Lexington 1775 Concord Ticonderoga Bunker Hill
Quebec City
Long Island 1776
Trenton
Princeton
Lake Champlain 1777
Brandywine
Germantown
Saratoga
Monmouth 1778
Charleston 1780
Cowpens
King’s Mountain
Guilford Court House 1781
Yorktown

7. GW on the Run British concentrated on NY.
Hoped to control Hudson River and separate New England from other colonies.
Battle of Long Island: GW had to evacuate NY.
British fail to pursue.
GW sets up winter camp at Valley Forge, Penn.
Wins battles of Trenton and Princeton over long cold winter.
Soldiers suffer hunger, and lack of clothing, but GW keeps their moral high.

8. Miracle on the Hudson British plan to take Hudson =
1. Gen Burgoyne move south from Canada
2. Gen Howe move north from NY City.

9. Saratoga Turning Point!!!
UK General Burgoyne moves south to try and take control of Hudson River.
US troops surround and force UK forces to surrender near Saratoga.
This victory convinces the French that the US has a chance to win, they will become our allies.

10. Why France? Old enemy of Britain Strong Navy/ Army
Wanted revenge for the 7 Years War
Liberal population of France admired the revolutionary ideals of US.
Benjamin Franklin (US minister to France) adored there

11. Tough Fight Ahead