Continental Army

Definition

The Continental Army was the unified military force established by the Thirteen Colonies during the American Revolutionary War to combat British forces. Formed in 1775, it was led by General George Washington and played a crucial role in securing American independence through various military conflicts and alliances.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Continental Army was established by the Second Continental Congress in June 1775, following the initial confrontations with British troops at Lexington and Concord.
2. George Washington was appointed as the commander-in-chief largely due to his previous military experience and ability to unify the diverse colonial forces.
3. The army faced numerous challenges, including supply shortages, lack of training, and desertions, but it ultimately proved resilient through critical victories.
4. The victory at Saratoga in 1777 was a turning point that not only boosted morale but also convinced France to formally ally with the American colonies.
5. The Continental Army disbanded after the Treaty of Paris in 1783, which formally recognized American independence and marked the end of the Revolutionary War.

Review Questions

• How did George Washington's leadership impact the effectiveness of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War?
  • George Washington's leadership was instrumental in shaping the Continental Army's effectiveness. His ability to inspire troops, coupled with his strategic vision, allowed him to navigate through early setbacks and foster a sense of unity among the diverse colonial forces. Washington's emphasis on discipline and training helped transform a poorly equipped militia into a formidable army capable of winning significant battles against the British.
• Discuss how the formation of the Continental Army influenced international alliances during the Revolutionary War.
  • The formation of the Continental Army significantly influenced international alliances by demonstrating a united front against British rule. The establishment of a formal military force signaled to foreign powers, particularly France, that the colonies were serious about achieving independence. This led to vital support, both militarily and financially, from France following key victories like Saratoga, which solidified the American position in negotiations for foreign assistance.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of the Continental Army's experiences during the Revolutionary War on future U.S. military structure and policy.
  • The experiences of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War had lasting effects on U.S. military structure and policy. The challenges faced in terms of organization, supply chain management, and soldier morale informed future military reforms. The importance placed on a standing army versus a militia system influenced debates about national defense and military readiness in subsequent years, shaping how the United States approached its defense strategies and military organization moving forward.

Related terms

George Washington:

The commander-in-chief of the Continental Army, he became a symbol of American patriotism and leadership during the Revolutionary War.

Declaration of Independence:

A formal statement adopted on July 4, 1776, declaring the thirteen colonies' independence from British rule, which galvanized support for the Continental Army.

Saratoga: A pivotal battle in 1777 that resulted in a significant victory for the Continental Army, which helped to secure French support for the American cause.