The discussion features an interview with John Moss, author of From Trenton to Yorktown: Turning Points of the Revolutionary War, about his book and the key moments he identifies as turning points in the American Revolutionary War.
The host raises the evacuation of Boston as a potential turning point. Moss explains that while significant for the Americans, providing them time to prepare for the New York campaign, it ultimately didn't change the trajectory toward American victory, especially considering the subsequent British successes in New York. He notes that the British evacuation benefited them strategically as well.
The first turning point discussed in detail is the "Ten Crucial Days" encompassing Washington's crossing of the Delaware, and the Battles of Trenton and Princeton. Moss highlights the dire situation of the Continental Army before these battles, with dwindling numbers, expiring enlistments, and declining morale. He argues that these victories were a strategic reboot, forcing the British to retract their forces in New Jersey and boosting American morale, enlistments, and confidence in Washington's leadership. The British commander, William Howe, even realized after these defeats that the war would not be a quick victory.
The second turning point is the Saratoga Campaign. Moss attributes the British failure to the difficult terrain, divided command, and poor communication. The British operated on exterior lines and lacked unity of effort. The American strategy, while not always involving set-piece battles, effectively prevented the British forces from linking up and securing Albany. The victory at Saratoga was crucial because it led to French involvement in the war, providing the Americans with much-needed naval support and resources. Moss considers Saratoga the most important turning point due to this foreign alliance.
The third turning point discussed is the winter encampment at Valley Forge. Moss argues its significance lies in the military transformation of the Continental Army under the training of Baron von Steuben, improving discipline and battlefield maneuvers. Additionally, Valley Forge was a political turning point where Washington solidified his leadership and overcame challenges to his command from Congress and other generals through strategic engagement and communication.
The fourth turning point is the Battle of Guilford Courthouse during the Southern Campaign. Although technically a British victory, it was very costly for Cornwallis, leading him to retreat and eventually abandon North Carolina. This effectively gave the Americans control of North Carolina and altered Cornwallis's strategy, leading him to Virginia.
The fifth and final turning point is the Siege of Yorktown. The combined American and French forces, with crucial support from the French Navy, trapped and forced the surrender of a significant British army. This decisive defeat led to the fall of the North government in Britain and ultimately compelled the British to negotiate peace.
During a question-and-answer session, Moss clarifies that his book focuses on the American theater and the impact on American victory, thus not delving into global turning points for the British, French, and Spanish. He also discusses the faulty British strategy at Saratoga, highlighting the lack of a clear plan after a potential link-up and the logistical challenges. Finally, he addresses the question of Britain's last best chance to win the war, suggesting that a more decisive victory by Howe at Brandywine could have severely weakened the Continental Army. However, he also points out that by late 1780 and 1781, even the Americans feared a diplomatic settlement that would leave Britain in control of significant portions of the colonies.
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Order the book: From Trenton to Yorktown: Turning Points of the Revolutionary War, by John Maass
More books by John Maass
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