History
Battle of Yorktown: The Final Victory
The decisive 1781 siege where American and French forces defeated the British, effectively ending the American Revolutionary War and securing independence.
What is it?
The Battle of Yorktown, also known as the Siege of Yorktown, was the last major land battle of the American Revolutionary War. Fought from September 28 to October 19, 1781, it featured a combined force of the American Continental Army, led by General George Washington, and the French Army, led by Comte de Rochambeau. These allied forces surrounded a British army commanded by Lieutenant General Charles Cornwallis in Yorktown, Virginia. A crucial element was the French fleet, commanded by Admiral de Grasse, which blocked British escape or reinforcement by sea, trapping Cornwallis's troops.
Why is it trending?
The battle is a pivotal event in American history because it was the decisive engagement of the war. Outnumbered and besieged by continuous artillery fire, Cornwallis was forced to surrender his entire army of over 7,000 soldiers. This catastrophic loss shattered the British will to continue the conflict. News of the surrender prompted the British Parliament to pass a resolution to end the war, leading to peace negotiations. The victory at Yorktown virtually guaranteed the independence of the United States.
How does it affect people?
This victory directly led to the birth of the United States of America. It ended major fighting in the Revolution and confirmed the colonists' long struggle for independence from British rule. The outcome resulted in the Treaty of Paris in 1783, where Great Britain formally recognized the United States as an independent nation. The battle also solidified George Washington's legacy as a formidable leader, paving the way for his future presidency and shaping the course of the new nation.