Battle of Saratoga “The Turning Point"

Facts Date: September 19th - October 17th, 1777 Location:  Freeman's Farm outside Saratoga, New York                   Bemis Heights outside Saratoga, New York Leaders: Gen. Horatio Gates vs. Gen. John Burgoyne

Saratoga Facts Battle of Saratoga was the turning point in the Americans' War of Independence Place: Saratoga on the Hudson River in New York State. Combatants: British and German troops against the Americans Size of the armies: The British force comprised some 5,000 British. By the time of the surrender the American force was around 12,000 to 14,000 militia and troops.

Questions In how many places did the opposing forces fight? Did the British forces outnumber the American forces? Who was the British commander? Who was the American commander?

Battle of Freeman’s Farm 19th of September 1777 The battle that followed swayed back and forth over the farm for more than three hours. British lines began to waiver German reinforcements arrived Burgoyne was able to steady the British lines and gradually force the Americans to withdraw back to the American camp

Questions Why was it important that German reinforcements came? Why was it important that the Americans were able to withdraw gradually? What would have happened if they retreated without any order?

Bemis Heights 7th of October 1777 British army was becoming weaker Burgoyne had to choose between advancing or retreating. Americans knew that Burgoyne's army was again on the move and at about 3 PM attacked in three columns On the night of the 8th of October 1777 the British began a hasty retreat northward

Questions Why could the British forces have become weaker? Do you think Burgoyne decided to attack or retreat? Why was it important that the Americans attacked in 3 columns? Was this an American or British victory?

Outcome The British suffered about 1,000 casualties in the fighting of the past three weeks; American losses numbered less than 500. Saratoga was one of the most decisive victories in American and world history. It helped to convince the French to join the American cause, making it the turning point of the American Revolution. 

Questions Why was this an important victory for America? What would have happened if the British had won the three week battle? Why did it convince the French to join the war?