In this Grade 8 lesson from America: History of Our Nation, students examine the American Revolution's critical 1776–1777 campaigns, including the Battle of Long Island, Washington's famous crossing of the Delaware River, and the Battle of Saratoga as a turning point in the war. Students also learn how foreign alliances and volunteers such as the Marquis de Lafayette and Friedrich von Steuben strengthened the Continental army. The lesson covers key figures like spy Nathan Hale and explores the role of mercenaries fighting for the British.
Section 1
American Soldiers Endure Valley Forge's Hardships
Washington's 11,000 Continental soldiers faced severe winter conditions at Valley Forge with inadequate food, clothing, and shelter. Despite these challenges, volunteers like Martha Washington provided aid while Baron von Steuben trained troops.
Section 2
Washington Surprises British Forces at Trenton
On Christmas night 1776, Washington led 2,400 troops across the Delaware River to launch a surprise attack on Hessian mercenaries at Trenton, capturing nearly 1,000 soldiers and achieving a crucial victory that boosted American morale.
Section 3
Americans Defeat British Forces at Saratoga
General Horatio Gates surrounded British forces at Saratoga, forcing General Burgoyne's surrender in October 1777. This pivotal victory ended the threat to New England, raised Patriot spirits, and convinced European nations that Americans could win.
Section 4
European Allies Provide Critical Support to Patriots
Following the Battle of Saratoga, France formed an alliance with America in 1778. European volunteers like Marquis de Lafayette, Thaddeus Kosciusko, and Baron von Steuben contributed military expertise that strengthened the Continental Army.
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Section 1
American Soldiers Endure Valley Forge's Hardships
Washington's 11,000 Continental soldiers faced severe winter conditions at Valley Forge with inadequate food, clothing, and shelter. Despite these challenges, volunteers like Martha Washington provided aid while Baron von Steuben trained troops.
Section 2
Washington Surprises British Forces at Trenton
On Christmas night 1776, Washington led 2,400 troops across the Delaware River to launch a surprise attack on Hessian mercenaries at Trenton, capturing nearly 1,000 soldiers and achieving a crucial victory that boosted American morale.
Section 3
Americans Defeat British Forces at Saratoga
General Horatio Gates surrounded British forces at Saratoga, forcing General Burgoyne's surrender in October 1777. This pivotal victory ended the threat to New England, raised Patriot spirits, and convinced European nations that Americans could win.
Section 4
European Allies Provide Critical Support to Patriots
Following the Battle of Saratoga, France formed an alliance with America in 1778. European volunteers like Marquis de Lafayette, Thaddeus Kosciusko, and Baron von Steuben contributed military expertise that strengthened the Continental Army.
Book overview
Jump across lessons in the current chapter without opening the full course modal.
Continue this chapter