Leaders Shift Strategy to Trap the British
Analyze how Washington and Rochambeau pivoted from attacking New York to trapping Cornwallis at Yorktown with French naval support, ending the Revolution in Grade 8 history.
Key Concepts
General George Washington and French commander Comte de Rochambeau initially planned to attack the main British army in New York City. This was the primary British stronghold in North America.
However, they saw a new opportunity when British General Cornwallis moved his army to Yorktown, Virginia. Washington and Rochambeau realized they could trap the British on the coast if they acted quickly and secretly.
Common Questions
What was the original plan before Yorktown?
Washington and French commander Rochambeau initially planned to attack the main British army in New York City, the primary British stronghold in North America.
Why did commanders shift their strategy to Yorktown?
French naval power blocked Cornwallis's escape by sea, making Yorktown a better target where they could trap the British army with combined land and naval forces.
How did the strategy shift lead to victory at Yorktown?
By surrounding Cornwallis with American and French forces on land while the French fleet blocked escape by sea, Washington forced the decisive British surrender.