General William Howe

Definition

A British Army officer who rose to become Commander-in-Chief of British forces during the American War of Independence. Howe's command included successful operations in New York City and Philadelphia but failed to deliver a decisive blow against Patriot forces.

Related terms

Battle of Long Island: Fought in August 1776, it was one of Howe's notable victories where he outflanked Washington’s troops.

Philadelphia Campaign: A series of battles fought in 1777 with an aim to capture Philadelphia; it ended with success for Howe's troops.

Commander-in-Chief: The person exercising supreme command authority of a nation's military forces or significant element of those forces.