Washington suffered many defeats before 1781 - he had to plan his next move carefully in order to win against the British.
Grand Strategy
George Washington was prepared to fight the British with his own strategy. However, Rochambeau had other ideas.
Washington's Grand Strategy
Rochambeau
Washington wasn't fighting alone. He had the help of many French generals, including the Comte de Rochambeau.
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Washington's Officers
The Continental Army fought throughout Northern America and was commanded by George Washington. However, Washington had many important officers under him.
Washington's OfficersVideo
The Genius of George Washington
George Washington bravely led the Continental Army to victory in the American Revolution. What about his leadership made him so successful?
The American Revolution Timeline
What led up to the Battle of Yorktown? Learn more with this interactive timeline.
Why did the French help the Continental Army?
Primary Source: A French Map of New York
Washington initially wanted to launch a campaign to reclaim New York from the British - the French thought New York's landscape was too difficult to navigate, as displayed in this map.
Primary Source: George Washington to Benjamin Tallmadge
This letter to Benjamin Tallmadge asks him to deliver information to Rochambeau in New York. At this time, Washington is seriously thinking about attacking the British in New York, not Yorktown.
Primary Source: George Washington to John Laurens (Founders Online)
This secret letter to John Laurens explains the most recent happenings of the American Revolution in April of 1781. Washington talks primarily about the French Navy and the Battle of the Virginia Capes.
Primary Sources
Click the links to explore Primary Sources on the American Revolution
Secondary Sources
Click the links to read Secondary Sources on the American Revolution
- The American Revolution
- American Revolution Resources
- Continental Army
- General Cornwallis
- Comte de Rochambaeu
- Battles Washington Fought In
- The Battle of Saratoga
- The Siege of Savannah
- The Siege of Charleston (1776)
- The Siege of Charleston (1780)
- The Battle of Guliford Courthouse
- The Southern Strategy
Watch Now or Never
Learn how the Continental Army won the Revolution with this 30 minute film!