Battle of SaratogaThe Turning Point of the American Revolution

British Strategy•General John Bourgoyne marched from

Quebéc intending to capture Albany, NY.

•He needed Howe to meet him halfway, but Howe went and took Philadelphia instead

•His large army spent too much time struggling through the wilderness. They were worn out.

•In the two battles of Saratoga, Bourgoyne was beaten badly and forced to surrender.

American Strategy•Washington was trying to save

Philadelphia so he appointed General Horatio Gates to meet Bourgoyne in New York.

•Colonials had to stop Bourgoyne from cutting a wedge in the colonies which he could do by taking Albany.

•Gates had the help of Benedict Arnold, but the two ended up hating each other.

•Benedict Arnold saved the cause at the Battle of Bemis Heights. Gates got the credit.

Battle of Freeman’s Farm

•Bourgoyne tried to flank the American positions.

•Arnold anticipated that and stopped him

•Bourgoyne captured Freeman’s Farm but took heavy casulties.

•Bourgoyne needed help from New York City, but it would never come.

•Washington had sent Benedict Arnold to help Gates along with several hundred men.

•Gates was cautious while Arnold was aggressive.

•Arnold saved the Americans by capturing cannons on top of Bemis Heights.

•The Red Coats had to surrender.

Battle of Bemis Heights

Gates

Arnold

Casulties