Exploring the Fall of Charleston in 1780

The video discusses the Siege of Charleston during the American Revolution, highlighting it as one of the worst American defeats. Initially, the British focused on the northern colonies but shifted to the South after the American victory at Saratoga and France's entry into the war. British General Henry Clinton led a successful campaign in the South, capturing Savannah and besieging Charleston. The siege ended with a significant American surrender, impacting the war's course. The video also covers the aftermath, including Clinton's return to New York and Cornwallis's campaign in the Carolinas.

What event prompted the British to change their strategy and focus on the southern colonies?

• The Boston Tea Party

• The signing of the Declaration of Independence

• The American victory at Saratoga

• The Battle of Bunker Hill

Who took over British forces in America in February 1778?

• Charles Cornwallis

• Henry Clinton

• William Howe

• Lord Frederick North

What was one of the main reasons the British decided to take the war to the southern colonies?

• To avoid harsh winters

• To capture Philadelphia

• To exploit their naval dominance

• To recruit more soldiers

Which city did the British capture in December 1778, prompting increased efforts in the South?

• Charleston

• Savannah

• Richmond

• Atlanta

What did the Phillipsburg Proclamation promise?

• Freedom to enslaved people who escaped

• Military support to Native Americans

• Land to loyalists

• Tax relief to colonists

Who was the American general tasked with defending Charleston?

• Horatio Gates

• Benjamin Lincoln

• Nathanael Greene

• George Washington

What was a significant challenge in defending Charleston?

• Surrounding water and British naval superiority

• Harsh weather conditions

• Insufficient ammunition

• Lack of food supplies

When did the Americans surrender Charleston to the British?

• May 12, 1780

• May 8, 1780

• April 1, 1780

• June 1, 1780

How many American troops surrendered to the British at Charleston?

• 5,266

• 4,500

• 3,000

• 6,000

Where did General Charles Cornwallis eventually face a final showdown with the Americans?

• Philadelphia

• Yorktown

• Charleston

• Savannah