Siege of Yorktown

Definition

The Siege of Yorktown was a pivotal military engagement during the American Revolutionary War that took place from September 28 to October 19, 1781. It marked the last major battle of the war, where American and French forces, led by General George Washington, besieged the British army commanded by General Cornwallis, ultimately forcing their surrender. This significant event effectively ended large-scale fighting in the colonies and paved the way for American independence.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Siege of Yorktown was a combined effort of American and French forces, with approximately 7,000 French troops joining Washington's army.
2. The siege involved extensive bombardment and trench warfare, showcasing innovative military tactics of the time.
3. Cornwallis's forces were trapped on a peninsula, limiting their escape routes and making them vulnerable to attack.
4. The successful siege led to Cornwallis's surrender on October 19, 1781, marking a decisive turning point in the Revolutionary War.
5. The victory at Yorktown bolstered American morale and secured additional support from European allies, influencing negotiations for peace.

Review Questions

• How did the Siege of Yorktown demonstrate the effectiveness of the American-French alliance?
  • The Siege of Yorktown highlighted the effectiveness of the American-French alliance through their coordinated military efforts. General Washington's forces worked in tandem with the French troops under General Rochambeau to encircle Cornwallis's British army. The combination of American ground tactics and French naval support effectively trapped the British, leading to their surrender. This collaboration not only showcased military strategy but also symbolized international support for American independence.
• Discuss the strategic significance of Yorktown for both British and American forces during the Revolutionary War.
  • Yorktown was strategically significant as it served as a key position for British operations in the southern colonies. For Cornwallis, it was essential to secure supply lines and reinforce control over Virginia. However, for American forces, capturing Yorktown would disrupt British plans and potentially lead to their ultimate victory. The successful siege not only diminished British power but also marked a turning point in public sentiment towards independence in both America and Europe.
• Evaluate how the outcome of the Siege of Yorktown influenced post-war negotiations and the eventual Treaty of Paris.
  • The outcome of the Siege of Yorktown had a profound impact on post-war negotiations and led directly to the Treaty of Paris in 1783. Cornwallis's surrender significantly weakened British resolve to continue fighting, prompting calls for peace from both Britain and America. The demonstrated strength of the American forces, bolstered by French support, shifted diplomatic leverage towards the Americans. As a result, negotiations resulted in Britain recognizing American independence and defining borders that would shape the future United States.

Related terms

General Cornwallis:

The British Army officer who commanded the forces at Yorktown, ultimately surrendering to American and French troops during the siege.

French Alliance:

The partnership formed between the American colonies and France during the Revolutionary War, crucial in providing military support that helped secure victory at Yorktown.

Treaty of Paris 1783:

The agreement that officially ended the Revolutionary War and recognized American independence, largely influenced by the outcome of the Siege of Yorktown.