British Strategy in the American Revolution

The British initially viewed the American Revolution as a localized rebellion and aimed to isolate Boston. Their strategy failed due to underestimating American resolve, overestimating Loyalist support, and logistical challenges. In 1777, they attempted to cut off New England but failed at Saratoga, leading to French and Spanish involvement. The British then focused on the South, expecting Loyalist support, but faced guerrilla resistance and ultimately surrendered at Yorktown, effectively ending the conflict.

What was the initial British strategy during the American Revolution?

• To conduct large-scale invasions

• To isolate Boston and conduct limited operations

• To immediately seek peace negotiations

• To ally with Native American tribes

Which of the following was NOT a reason for the failure of the British initial strategy?

• Underestimating American resolve

• Effective coordination of British armies

• Logistical challenges

• Overestimating Loyalist support

What was the goal of the British strategy shift in 1777?

• To cut off New England by controlling the Hudson River Valley

• To capture Philadelphia

• To invade Canada

• To negotiate with the French

What was the outcome of General Burgoyne's campaign?

• A decisive victory at Saratoga

• An alliance with Native American tribes

• A successful capture of New York City

• A complete defeat and surrender at Saratoga

Which countries entered the war on the side of the American colonists after Saratoga?

• Germany and Italy

• Portugal and the Netherlands

• Russia and Prussia

• France and Spain

What was the British expectation when they shifted their focus to the South?

• To establish a new capital in Charleston

• To find a large Loyalist population

• To quickly capture Washington, D.C.

• To receive support from Native American tribes

Which battle marked the end of British hopes in the South?

• Battle of Kings Mountain

• Battle of Yorktown

• Battle of Bunker Hill

• Battle of Saratoga

Where did the British forces under Cornwallis surrender?

• Boston

• Yorktown

• New York City

• Philadelphia

What was the significance of the surrender at Yorktown?

• It led to the capture of George Washington

• It effectively ended the conflict in North America

• It marked the beginning of the war

• It resulted in a British victory

What was the ultimate outcome of the British strategy in the American Revolution?

• An alliance with France

• A quick victory and control over the colonies

• A successful suppression of the rebellion

• A prolonged war with eventual peace negotiations