The Battle of Saratoga

British General John Burgoyne believed that the best strategy for defeating the Americans was the divide-and-conquer strategy. This consisted of invading America from Canada by advancing down the Hudson Valley to Albany. He would then be joined by other British troops under the command of William Howe. This strategy would not only isolate New England from the other colonies but they would also take command of the Hudson. In  June 1777, Burgoyne's army of over 7,000 men (half British and half hessian) left St. John's on Lake Champlain and headed to Fort Ticonderoga. The Native Americans allied with the British in this battle. However, instead of helping Burgoyne, Howe went to capture Philadelphia. The Americans recognized that once the British got near the Fort, they would not be able to defend it and sailed to Mount Independence to stop the British. The British won this round.

        

As Burgoyne continued his march to Albany, his supply lines dwindled. Howe had not met him as promised. However, the British won many campaigns and infuriated the colonists. In early August, the British received news that a supply depot at Bennington, Vermont was lightly guarded. Burgoyne sent German troops to the depot but were met with American general John Star. He capture 500 German soldiers. Also, American General Schuyler proceeded to burn supplies and crops, forcing the British to rely on their supply line to Canada. General Horatio Gates arrived in New York to take command of the American Forces.

         

By mid-September, the British army crossed the Hudson and headed for Saratoga. On September 19, the two armies met at Freeman's Farm north of Albany. The British sustained many losses. In late September and during the first week of October, Gate's army was positioned between Burgoyne's army and Albany. On October 7, Burgoyne decided to attack. The troops crashed together south of the town of Saratoga. 86% of Burgoyne's army was captured. 5,895 British and Hessian troops surrendered their arms. The victory was clear.