Why Is The Battle Of Saratoga A Turning Point

The Battle of Saratoga is well known for being the “turning point” of the Revolutionary War. The Battle of Saratoga actually consisted of two important battles that ultimately led to the American victory, which would send shock waves across the world. It was the first time that other countries began to believe that the Americans could win the Revolutionary War. The Battle of Saratoga proved several ideas to the American public and the Continental Army. Primarily, it proved that with supreme leadership and loyal soldiers the Americans certainly do have the potential to reach the goal of independence. Throughout this article I will examine the background and details of the Battle of Saratoga and look at the insurmountable leadership from Major General Horatio Gates. In the late summer

First, the British General was able to conquer Fort Ticonderoga losing only a few casualties. However, along his travel south he was going to encounter several more guerrilla type attacks. This cost the British Army several resources and made for a very slow movement, which the Americans were able to capitalize on. Later, on August 16, Burgoyne lost nearly one-thousand troops in an attempt to capture much needed American supplies in Bennington. This left General Burgoyne at an even greater disadvantage for the upcoming events at Saratoga. Finally, after several months of travel General Burgoyne and his men reached Saratoga and was advised about General Gates and his blockade. He divided his men amongst three brigades. The first brigade moved closest to the Hudson River, commanded by General Reidesel. The second brigade moved directly south near Freeman’s Farm, controlled by Colonel Hamilton. The final brigade swept to the west in attempt to maneuver around the Americans western flank, led by General Fraser. While General Burgoyne placed himself in the center rear to have best command and