How did Washington gain control of Boston?
To understand how Washington gained control of Boston during the American Revolutionary War, we need to examine the historical context and events that occurred. Here is an explanation of the steps involved:
1. Siege of Boston: By April 1775, tensions between the American colonists and the British authorities had escalated. The first military engagement of the Revolutionary War, known as the Battles of Lexington and Concord, took place near Boston. This prompted several colonial militias to converge and establish a siege around the city, effectively trapping the British forces inside.
2. Appointment of George Washington: In June 1775, the Second Continental Congress appointed George Washington as the commander-in-chief of the newly formed Continental Army.
3. Fortification of positions: Washington recognized the strategic importance of maintaining control over Boston. He directed his forces to fortify the high ground surrounding the city, most notably at Dorchester Heights and Bunker Hill. These positions allowed the American troops to control the harbor and put the British under constant threat.
4. Dorchester Heights occupation: In early 1776, Washington, along with his engineer Colonel Henry Knox, devised a plan to fortify Dorchester Heights, overlooking Boston. Under the cover of darkness on the night of March 4th, American troops moved heavy artillery captured from the British at Fort Ticonderoga to the Heights. This surprise move gave Washington a significant advantage.
5. British retreat: Realizing that their position in Boston had become untenable, the British military leadership, commanded by General William Howe, decided to evacuate the city. They feared that if they remained, their ships would be trapped by American cannons overlooking the harbor.
6. Evacuation of Boston: On March 17, 1776, British troops and loyalists sailed out of Boston harbor, ending the eleven-month siege. The American forces, under Washington's command, entered the city and took control.
In summary, Washington gained control of Boston by implementing a strategic plan that involved sieging the city, fortifying key positions, and successfully occupying Dorchester Heights with artillery, forcing the British to evacuate.