The Siege of Savannah (during the American Revolution)
Who was involved? Think about the people or groups who were involved and affected by this event.
The Siege of Savannah, which took place from September 16 to October 18, 1779, during the American Revolution, involved several parties.
1. The British: The primary force involved in the Siege of Savannah was the British army, led by Lieutenant Colonel Archibald Campbell. They consisted of regular soldiers, as well as loyalist troops and Native American allies. The British were determined to hold onto Savannah, which was a crucial port for their war effort.
2. The Americans: The American forces involved in the siege were mainly Continental Army troops, commanded by General Benjamin Lincoln. They were supported by militia units from several states, such as Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia. The American forces aimed to expel the British from Savannah and gain control over the strategically significant city.
3. French Forces: The French military played a critical role in the Siege of Savannah. Under the command of Count Jean-Baptiste de Rochambeau, a contingent of French soldiers arrived to support the American cause. This included troops from the French Caribbean colonies and some units of the French Army.
4. Native American Allies: Both the British and the American forces had Native American allies involved in the siege. The British engaged the services of Creek and Cherokee warriors, while the Americans had some support from the Choctaw tribe.
5. Civilians: The local civilian population of Savannah, including merchants, farmers, and residents, were significantly affected by the siege. Many of them had to endure the destruction caused by the fighting, and their lives were disrupted as the city became a battleground.
6. African Americans: Enslaved individuals were also affected by the siege. Both the British and the American forces sought to enlist or recruit enslaved African Americans in exchange for freedom. Their involvement in the siege had significant implications for their lives and the larger issue of slavery during the American Revolution.
Overall, the Siege of Savannah involved British, American, French, Native American, and civilian populations who were directly or indirectly affected by the military actions and political implications of the conflict.