Colonists Force a British Retreat
Describe how George Washington's Continental Army besieged and forced the British evacuation of Boston in 1776, the first major Patriot victory of the Revolution in Grade 8 history.
Key Concepts
While political debates continued, the new Continental Army took action. Under the command of George Washington , colonial forces trapped the British army in Boston. This long standoff was known as the Siege of Boston .
In a bold overnight move, Washington’s troops fortified Dorchester Heights , a high point overlooking the city. They placed cannons there, giving them a commanding position over the British ships and soldiers below.
Common Questions
How did colonial forces force the British out of Boston?
George Washington positioned captured cannons on Dorchester Heights overlooking Boston Harbor, making the British position militarily untenable and forcing their evacuation.
Why was the British evacuation of Boston significant?
It was the first major Patriot military success, boosting colonial morale and proving that the Continental Army could force the powerful British military to retreat.
Where did Washington get the cannons to threaten Boston?
Henry Knox transported cannons captured at Fort Ticonderoga hundreds of miles through winter terrain to Washington's army outside Boston.