The British Evacuate Boston

On this day, 250 years ago, George Washington and the Patriot forces won a major victory.

After the battles of Lexington and Concord the previous April, British troops withdrew to Boston and fortified the city. The Continental Army under George Washington surrounded them, beginning the Siege of Boston.

Lacking artillery, however, the Patriots could not force the British out. That changed when Henry Knox led a winter expedition to transport cannons captured at Fort Ticonderoga—hauling more than 50 pieces of artillery across snow, ice, and mountains to Boston.

Washington placed artillery on the hills around Boston and the harbor.

Realizing that his forces were vulnerable, British General William Howe decided to evacuate the city. 

On March 17, 1776, British troops and Loyalists boarded ships bound for Nova Scotia.

Boston was now in Patriot hands.

Three Big Things

Let’s look at 3 big things about the British evacuation of Boston.

1. A Major Victory - Boston was one of the British army’s key strongholds in the colonies. Forcing them out was a major victory that helped build up American confidence.
2. Knox's Contribution - We mentioned this last year, but it bears repeating. Knox’s efforts to transport captured artillery from Fort Ticonderoga to Boston was a stupendous feat of logistics. His leadership was crucial to the victory.
3. Washington's Leadership - George Washington’s planning, fortification of the heights around Boston, and brilliant use of artillery also demonstrated great leadership. This success strengthened trust in him as Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army.

And there you have it – America 250 years ago. Stay tuned for more updates leading to America’s 250th birthday.