Battle of Long Island

On August 27, 1776 the British Army successfully moved against the American Continental Army led by George Washington. The battle was part of a British campaign to seize control of New York and thereby isolate New England from the rest of the colonies. Washington's defeat could have led to the surrender of his entire force, but his ingenuity instead allowed him to escape and continue the fight.

This Day in History

May 22

American Revolution

Patriot siege of Ninety Six, South Carolina, begins, 1781

On this day in 1781, Major General Nathanael Greene and 1,000 Patriots attempt an attack on the critical village of Ninety-Six in the South Carolina…

Recommended Articles

  • American Revolution

    American Revolution

    During the American Revolution, Great Britain's 13 American colonies rose up in insurrection and won their independence.

  • George Washington

    George Washington

    George Washington served two terms as the first U.S. president, from 1789 to 1797.

  • Battle of Saratoga

    Battle of Saratoga

    Fought eighteen days apart in the fall of 1777, the two Battles of Saratoga were a turning point in the American Revolution.

  • Battles of Yorktown and Virginia Capes

    Battles of Yorktown and Virginia Capes

    The 1781 American victory at Yorktown proved to be the final major battle of the American Revolution.

Did You Know?

On August 29th, under cover of a foggy night, George Washington secretly evacuated his entire force, more than 9,000 men, from Brooklyn to Manhattan, saving the Continental Army and stunning the British.

Fact Check We strive for accuracy and fairness. But if you see something that doesn't look right, contact us!

Advertisement

Shop HISTORY

Classroom Study Guides