The Battle of Long Island occurred on August the 27th, 1776 during the American War of Independence. The British plan of campaign was now to crush George Washington in New York, seize the Hudson and thus divide the colonial forces. As George Washington was inferior in numbers and efficiency he occupied Brooklyn Heights with 9000 men. Howe's only course was to dislodge him. He landed his men at Gravesend, Long Island, and after four days' reconnoitring advanced in three divisions, 20,000 strong. Two divisions met the American outposts, 5000 in number, under Stirling and Sullivan. On the arrival of the third division in their rear they utterly routed the Americans and captured Stirling and Sullivan and 1000 of their men. The British now appeared before the American position, but refrained from an assault, preferring a siege. Clearly perceiving the danger of such a course George Washington withdrew his army over to New York under cover of night sacrificing New York but saving his army from capture. Research Battle of Long Island
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Research Battle of Long Island
