New York Campaign

The New York Campaign describes the actions and battles of the American Revolutionary War, by which the British forces gained control of New York City and its surroundings in the summer and fall of 1776. The campaign covers events from the British landing on Staten Island on July 3, 1776 through their capture of Fort Washington on November 16.

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Background

The campaign was a major strategic and tactical success for the British and a clear defeat for the Continental Army. British naval forces, led by Admiral Richard Howe, and the British Army, led by his brother William Howe, gained control of New York City, its harbor, and the surrounding agricultural areas. They would hold the city and Long Island for seven years, until 1783. The Americans, led by General George Washington lost a series of battles, took significant casualties, and lost important supplies. But Washington managed to withdraw the core of his Army, and avoided the decisive confrontation that could have ended the war.

The major engagements fought in the campaign were:

• The Battle of Long Island (August 27)
• The Battle of Kip's Bay (September 15)
• The Battle of Harlem Heights (September 16}
• The Battle of White Plains (October 26)
• The Capture of Fort Washington (November 16)

Long Island

Main Article: Battle of Long Island

Manhattan

Main Articles: Landing at Kip's Bay, Battle of Harlem Heights

White Plains

Main Article: Battle of White Plains

Final Fall

Main Article: Fort Washington