Battle of Yorktown 1781: Revolutionary War Victory — Reading Comprehension

The Battle of Yorktown in 1781 marked a turning point in the American Revolutionary War. British General Charles Cornwallis and his troops were trapped at Yorktown, Virginia, by a combined force of American and French soldiers. The event did not occur by chance. Rather, it resulted from complex alliances and strategic decisions made by leaders on both sides. Understanding why Yorktown became the final major battle requires examining the motivations, decisions, and perspectives of the people involved.

The American colonists, led by General George Washington, faced many difficulties. Their resources were limited, and their army had suffered losses in previous campaigns. However, the Americans had a powerful motivation: independence from British rule. The war had dragged on for years, causing hardship for both soldiers and civilians. By 1781, Washington saw an opportunity to strike a decisive blow. He wrote to a French general, "We have but one day to act in concert," showing the urgency of their cooperation. This primary source highlights how crucial the Franco-American alliance was to the plan.

French involvement was a key factor. France, seeking to weaken its old rival Britain, sent troops led by General Rochambeau and a fleet commanded by Admiral de Grasse. The French navy blocked British ships from reaching Yorktown, cutting off reinforcements and supplies. At the same time, American and French soldiers surrounded Cornwallis's forces on land. This siege left the British with few options but to surrender. The French perspective was not purely about helping Americans. France wanted to increase its own influence and prestige in Europe by defeating Britain.

On the British side, General Cornwallis had hoped to hold Yorktown until help arrived. However, British leaders in New York underestimated the speed and determination of the American-French attack. The lack of coordination and slow response from the British navy proved disastrous. Cornwallis found himself isolated, lacking the supplies needed to continue fighting. The British army suffered from morale problems, as soldiers were weary from years of war and uncertain about their chances of victory.

The siege was intense. Cannon fire destroyed British defenses. After weeks of fighting, Cornwallis realized the situation was hopeless. On October 19, 1781, he agreed to surrender his army. This surrender shocked many in Britain and inspired celebrations in the American colonies. Yet, not everyone saw the outcome the same way. Loyalists, Americans who remained loyal to the British crown, faced uncertainty about their future. Enslaved people, some of whom had fought for both sides, still faced bondage despite the talk of liberty.

The victory at Yorktown did not immediately end the war, but it convinced the British government that continuing the fight was too costly. Peace talks began soon after, leading to the Treaty of Paris in 1783. Yorktown demonstrated how international cooperation and strategic planning could change the course of history. The battle's legacy is complex, showing both the possibilities and the limits of revolutionary change.

Interesting Fact: After Yorktown, over 7,000 British soldiers became prisoners of war, while the Americans and French suffered far fewer casualties.

Who led American forces at Yorktown?

Which country helped the Americans?

What year did Yorktown surrender?

Why did the French join the war?

What role did the French navy play?

What was a consequence of Yorktown?

Yorktown ended the Revolutionary War. True or False?

What does 'siege' mean?