Summary of Battle of Saratoga
The pivotal turning point that shaped America's revolutionary destiny.
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Introduction
General Horatio Gates
General John Burgoyne
Benedict Arnold
Philip Schuyler
Baron Friedrich von Steuben
The Battles of Saratoga
The Surrender of General Burgoyne
French Alliance
Boosting American Morale
Strategic Importance
Impact on the War
Legacy of Saratoga
Recognition for American Generals
Continental Congress
Turning the Tide
Lesson Details & Resources
In a Nutshell
- What: The turning point battle in the American Revolutionary War.
- When: September 19 – October 7, 1777.
- Who: General Burgoyne’s British forces vs. General Gates’ American forces.
- Outcome: Major American victory, leading to France openly supporting the American cause.
Famous Figures in the Battle of Saratoga
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Benedict Arnold
Benedict Arnold was a general during the American Revolutionary War who initially fought for the American Continental Army but later defected to the British Army.
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Horatio Gates
Horatio Gates was a retired British soldier who served as a major general during the American Revolutionary War and played a vital role in the Battle of Saratoga.
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John Burgoyne
John Burgoyne was a British army officer who served as a general during the American Revolutionary War and led the ill-fated Saratoga campaign.
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Daniel Morgan
Daniel Morgan was an American pioneer, soldier, and politician who played a significant role in the Battle of Saratoga, commanding the American forces.
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Philip Schuyler
Philip Schuyler was a general in the American Revolution and a prominent political leader who played a crucial role in the defense of Saratoga.
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John Stark
John Stark was a New Hampshire native and a major general in the Continental Army who participated in the Battle of Saratoga.
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Alexander Hamilton
Alexander Hamilton was one of the Founding Fathers of the United States and served as an aide-de-camp to General George Washington during the Battle of Saratoga.
Timeline of Battle of Saratoga
Battle of Lexington and Concord
Battle of Bunker Hill
Declaration of Independence
Battle of Trenton
Battle of Princeton
Burgoyne's Campaign begins
Battle of Oriskany
Battle of Bennington
Battle of Freeman's Farm
Battle of Bemis Heights
Surrender of British General Burgoyne
Articles of Confederation adopted
Valley Forge winter encampment
France formally allies with the United States
British surrender at Yorktown
Treaty of Paris signed
End of the American Revolution
Vocabulary List
- Saratoga
- The Battle of Saratoga was a key turning point in the American Revolution.
- Revolution
- Saratoga is often referred to as the turning point of the Revolution.
- Battle
- The Battle of Saratoga was a series of military engagements fought during the Revolution.
- American
- The American forces played a crucial role in the victory at Saratoga.
- Victory
- The American victory at Saratoga boosted their morale and gained them international support.
- General
- General Horatio Gates was the American commander during the Battle of Saratoga.
- British
- The British forces suffered a significant defeat at Saratoga.
- Strategy
- The strategic positioning of American troops contributed to the success at Saratoga.
- Tactics
- The tactical decisions made by American commanders were crucial in the Battle of Saratoga.
- Surrender
- The British General John Burgoyne eventually had to surrender at Saratoga.
Key Facts
This is the information used in the fact matching game
- The Battle of Saratoga was a series of two battles fought in September and October 1777 during the American Revolutionary War.
- The battles of Saratoga are considered a turning point in the American Revolution as they convinced France to formally ally with the American forces.
- The British army, led by General John Burgoyne, was defeated by the American forces commanded by General Horatio Gates and General Benedict Arnold.
- The American victory at Saratoga boosted morale and renewed hope in the fight for independence.
- The British surrender at Saratoga is often regarded as the turning point that convinced France to support the American cause.
- Saratoga is located in upstate New York, approximately 40 miles north of Albany.
- The Saratoga National Historical Park preserves the site of the battles and provides educational programs and exhibits.
- The park features a visitor center, a 10-mile scenic drive, and several walking trails.
- Both battles of Saratoga were fought along the Hudson River.
- The battles of Saratoga resulted in approximately 5,000 British and Hessian casualties and 1,200 American casualties.
- The British army's defeat at Saratoga led to a change in British strategy, focusing on the southern colonies instead.
- The Saratoga campaign is considered one of the 15 most decisive military operations in world history.
- The Battles of Saratoga are often referred to as the Battle of Freeman's Farm and the Battle of Bemis Heights.
- General Benedict Arnold played a significant role in the American victory at Saratoga, but his later actions during the war led to his infamy as a traitor.
- The Battles of Saratoga inspired artists such as John Trumbull, who painted several famous historical scenes from the war.
- Saratoga is known for its rich equestrian history and is home to the Saratoga Race Course, one of the oldest horse racing tracks in the United States.
- The Saratoga Springs region is famous for its natural mineral springs, which have been visited for their healing properties since the 18th century.
- The Battles of Saratoga were the first major American military victory after the Declaration of Independence was signed.
- The battles took place from September 19 to October 7, 1777.
- The American forces at Saratoga were a mix of Continental Army soldiers, militia, and local volunteers.
Analysis & Significance
Immediate Consequences
The Battle of Saratoga was a turning point in the American Revolutionary War, as it resulted in a decisive victory for the American forces over the British. This victory boosted morale and garnered much-needed support from France, which eventually led to their formal alliance with the Americans.
Long-Term Impact
The Battle of Saratoga is often considered the “Turning Point of the Revolution” as it convinced other European nations, such as Spain and the Netherlands, to support the American cause. The victory also encouraged the American troops and civilians, demonstrating that they could stand up against the formidable British army.
Cultural Significance Today
The Battle of Saratoga is remembered as a pivotal moment in American history, showcasing the perseverance and determination of the American people in their fight for independence. The battle is celebrated annually in Saratoga Springs, New York, and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom and democracy.
Battle of Saratoga Games
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