October 17, 1777- Americans outnumber and ambush British forces at this battle in upper New York. This victory convinces France and Spain to give financial and military support to the Americans.

Patriot soldier that helped capture Fort Ticonderoga early in the war. Later, he led American troops to victory at the Battle of Saratoga. He is not given credit for his service, and attempts to help the British instead. He is caught, and sentenced to death for treason. He escapes and returns to England.

Patriot General at the Battle of Saratoga in New York. He is given credit for victory, although he did not actually lead his troops in battle.

Spanish governor of Louisiana that helped the Americans during the Revolutionary War. He raised a militia and defeated British forts along the Gulf coast.

3rd leader of the British army in America, replacing General Howe after the Battle of Saratoga.

Prussian army general, sent to America by the French to help re-train and motivate the troops at Valley Forge. He introduced new weapons, tactics and skills to the Continental Army.

Washington's army spends the winter of 1777 here. The army suffers harsh conditions, with limited supplies, and the threat of disease. With assistance, Washington uses this time to re-train his army.

A representative to a foreign nation.

Famous inventor and scientist, he served as America's ambassador to France, and managed to secure financial and military support.

The forceful overthrow of a government.

An agreement between two or more nations.

Wealthy French diplomat, he offered his services to the Continental Army, provided clothing and weapons for the army, and became an adviser to George Washington.

Patriot General of the southern troops. He was victorious at the Battle of Cowpens in South Carolina, became an adviser to Washington, and helped to expand the army supply line.

British General of the southern army in America. His troops are trapped in Yorktown, VA and is forced to surrender.

A knife/ blade attached to the end of a rifle, to be used in close combat.

The process of injecting a person with a small dose of a virus to help build up a defense against the disease.

British troops move south, hoping to find more loyalist support. They engage in a series of battles across South Carolina. Patriot forces use guerrilla warfare tactics, and force the British to Yorktown, VA to gather more supplies.

With help from the French navy, Patriot forces trap the British and force their surrender. This is the last major battle of the Revolutionary War.

This technically ended the American Revolution, and officially recognized the U.S. as an independent nation.