October 19, 1781

Definition

October 19, 1781, marks the date of the British surrender at the Siege of Yorktown, a decisive victory for American and French forces during the American Revolution. This event effectively ended major military operations in the colonies, leading to negotiations for peace and ultimately securing independence for the United States. The surrender signified a turning point in the war, demonstrating the effectiveness of the colonial forces and their allies against the British Empire.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Siege of Yorktown involved a combined force of approximately 17,000 American and French troops against about 9,000 British troops.
2. The successful siege was made possible due to the French fleet's blockade, which prevented British reinforcements from arriving by sea.
3. Cornwallis attempted to escape but was ultimately trapped and had no choice but to surrender on this date.
4. The surrender at Yorktown prompted discussions in Britain regarding the feasibility of continuing the war against the American colonies.
5. This event laid the groundwork for diplomatic negotiations that would lead to American independence through the Treaty of Paris.

Review Questions

• How did the events leading up to October 19, 1781, shape the outcome of the American Revolution?
  • Leading up to October 19, 1781, a series of military engagements and strategic alliances played crucial roles in shaping the outcome of the American Revolution. The formation of a strong alliance with France provided necessary military support that culminated in a coordinated assault on British forces at Yorktown. The successful siege demonstrated that combined efforts from both American and French troops could decisively defeat the British army, which significantly boosted morale and shifted public opinion towards supporting independence.
• Evaluate the significance of Cornwallis's surrender at Yorktown in relation to British strategies in the American Revolutionary War.
  • Cornwallis's surrender at Yorktown was significant as it highlighted major flaws in British military strategy. Despite having superior resources and manpower, the British failed to adapt to guerrilla tactics employed by American forces and underestimated their resolve. The loss forced British leaders to reconsider their approach to fighting a protracted war across an ocean and led to growing calls within Parliament to seek peace rather than continue costly military campaigns.
• Analyze how the events of October 19, 1781, contributed to international perceptions of American independence and influenced future diplomatic relations.
  • The events of October 19, 1781, fundamentally changed international perceptions of American independence by showcasing that colonial forces could defeat a world power like Britain. This victory not only galvanized support for the American cause but also attracted foreign sympathies that would later shape diplomatic relations. As news of Cornwallis's defeat spread across Europe, it encouraged other nations to consider formal alliances with America, paving the way for critical support during subsequent negotiations, including those that culminated in the Treaty of Paris in 1783.

Related terms

Siege of Yorktown: A significant military confrontation during the American Revolution where American and French forces besieged British troops, leading to their eventual surrender.

Cornwallis: General Charles Cornwallis was the British commander whose surrender at Yorktown marked a crucial defeat for Britain in the Revolutionary War.

Treaty of Paris: The agreement signed in 1783 that officially ended the Revolutionary War and recognized American independence.