Lesson 5: Winning Independence

Key Idea

The fight for independence involved many people beyond the Continental Army's soldiers. Women took on new responsibilities, managing farms and businesses at home. They also supported the army as nurses, cooks, and spies. Thousands of African Americans also fought in the war, many hoping their service would help them gain freedom.

These wartime contributions were significant. By helping the nation secure its liberty, many women and African Americans began to demand more of their own rights and freedoms. Their experiences helped launch future movements for equality and the abolition of slavery in the new United States.

Key Idea

After years of fighting in the North, the British army shifted its focus to the Southern colonies. British leaders believed they would find more Loyalist support there and could win the war by capturing key southern cities.

In the South, Patriot forces adapted their strategy. Instead of fighting large, formal battles, militias often used guerrilla tactics. Leaders like Francis Marion led small groups in surprise, hit-and-run attacks that disrupted British supply lines. This resistance wore down the British army and led its commander to move his troops to Yorktown, Virginia.

Key Idea

In 1781, British General Lord Cornwallis positioned his army at Yorktown, Virginia. He expected the powerful British navy to supply and support his troops from the sea, believing his army was safe on the coast.

General Washington and his French allies saw a perfect opportunity. They marched their armies south to surround Yorktown by land, while the French navy sailed in to block the coast. The British fleet was defeated, leaving Cornwallis completely trapped.