Did you know that Americans once invaded Canada? Well, it happened 250 years ago. On this day in 1775, the final battle for Canada began at Quebec.
Why did the Americans choose to attack? They had 2 objectives:
- Secure their northern flank from the threat of British invasion
- Possibly encourage Canadians to join the rebellion
The Americans planned a two-pronged attack.
- General Richard Montgomery would advance on Montreal then move on Quebec
- Meanwhile, Washington sent Benedict Arnold through the Maine wilderness to Quebec
Montgomery had an easier time – taking Montreal and approaching Quebec with minimal opposition. Arnold’s force, however, struggled through rough terrain, bad weather, sickness and mishaps. Nearly half of his 11-hundred-man force failed to make it to Quebec.
Once at Quebec, Montgomery and Arnold combined forces for an assault on Quebec.
It was a disaster. Montgomery was killed and Arnold wounded. 60 Americans died and hundreds were captured.
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| Montgomery's Death |
In the aftermath, Arnold tried to besiege the city. Ultimately, however, he had to retreat.
Three Big Things
Let’s look at 3 big things about the Battle of Quebec.
- Canadian Loyalty - The American defeat ensured that Canada would remain loyal to the king and to England. This is why we are two separate nations today.
- Threat from the North - British forces in Canada continued to threaten the American colonies. In fact, the British invaded from Canada in 1777.
- Tough Times Ahead - Quebec presaged tough times in the future. The Patriot successes of 1775 would be forgotten during the troubles ahead. Things would get so bleak that Thomas Paine, in December 1776, would write “These are the times that try men’s souls.” He encouraged the Patriots to persevere, writing “but he that stands it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman."
And there you have it – America, and Canada, 250 years ago.
