Battle+of+Monmouth

The Battle of Monmouth

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Date: June 28, 1778

Where: Monmouth County, New Jersey

Where the Armies are From: This battle was fought with the British And German (Hessian) troops against American Continental troops and militia. There were about 10,000 British troops and 11,000 American troops.

Generals: The major generals were Lieutenant General Sir Henry Clinton, Major General Earl Cornwallis and Major General Knyphausen for the British against General George Washington and Major General Charles Lee for the Americans. Major Charles Lee []

Account: General Clinton for the British was ordered to move their post from Philadelphia to New York. General Washington then tired to intercept the marching british army from getting to New York, and he met them at Monmouth County. Washington ordered Major Lee to take about 5,000 of the troops and halt the British march, while the rest of Washington's army would then come in and attack after the British had already stopped to fight. However, Lee didn't give proper or good instructions to the troops as they didn't attack according to plan, with skirmishes breaking out, forcing them to retreat the way that Washington was coming in. Washington then had General Wayne and troops halt the British advancement, and then was able to collect the army and force the British back with their new training from Steuben. However, the British were able to keep on moving north towards New York. Also, the legend of Molly Pitcher was created in this battle. She famously carried out water to thirsty soldiers and even took a soldier's place on a cannon after he died. . Molly Pitcher famously fighting at a cannon []

Outcome: This battle was considered a draw. 300 British soldiers died in this battle with 350 deaths for the Americans. 100 soldiers died of heatstroke also.

Significance: This was the last big battle on the northern side and was the largest one day battle in terms of soldiers. This battle allowed the British to withdrawl to New York. However, this was important for the Americans because not only did they win the field, but they also showed that the trained Continental Army can fight and stand against the British, giving them and Washington confidence.

Citations:
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Mike Dillon