Why did Washington decide to advance on the British camp at Yorktown?

They actually pushed the British into Yorktown because they knew the British were beginning to lose. Then after the British were surrounded by land the French started firing at them from sea until they surrendered

Answered by 123789 | 2024-06-10

The decision by General George Washington to advance on the British camp at Yorktown was influenced by several strategic developments. Initially, British General Cornwallis believed that Washington was preoccupied in New York and underestimated the threat posed by American and French forces. He was unaware that the French fleet was sailing into the Chesapeake Bay, which would play a pivotal role in the upcoming siege. Cornwallis' misjudgment led him to fortify his position at Yorktown, Virginia, a strategic mistake that would prove to be his downfall.
In the summer of 1781, Cornwallis moved his army to Yorktown and awaited transportation to New York to join forces with General Sir Henry Clinton. Meanwhile, Washington, along with the Marquis de Lafayette, the Comte de Rochambeau, and a force of 9,500 American soldiers plus 7,800 French troops, recognized an opportunity to strike. The naval support from the French Admiral de Grasse, who blocked any potential escape by sea, allowed a significant advantage for the combined French and American forces. Sensing that Cornwallis was trapped, Washington led a disciplined army south and laid siege to Yorktown in September 1781. This strategic move led to the surrender of British forces in October and marked the last major battle of the American Revolution. The eventual signing of the Treaty of Paris solidified American independence and demonstrated the successful alliance between America and France.

Answered by LevonHelm | 2024-06-24

Washington decided to advance on the British camp at Yorktown due to Cornwallis's vulnerability, the support from French allies, the strategic location of Yorktown, and the element of surprise. This advance led to the successful siege and surrender of British forces, which was crucial in securing American independence.
;

Answered by 123789 | 2024-12-26