Turning Points
Battles of the American Revolution
The major turning points in the American Revolution with important Irish soldiers or leaders are listed and explained below:
Battle of Saratoga
John Stark
After British General Burgoyne lost the Battle of Bennington to John Stark, he immediately continued South without supplies to another defeat at the Battle of Saratoga. As a consequence of that American victory, the French agreed to ally themselves with the American forces turning the war in favor of the Americans. Without John Stark’s victory at Bennington, Burgoyne would have had plenty of supplies to unleash at Saratoga. Stark’s actions knocked British back on their heels, and turned the war’s momentum.
Battle of Bunker (Breed's) Hill
Painted by John Trumbell, Son of Irish governor of Connecticut
Scot-Irishmen John Stark, who later became the Secretary of War in George Washington's cabinet, along with Henry Knox served during the Battle of Bunker Hill. The battle completely changed the direction of the Revolution by building the confidence of the Americans. They were beginning to believe that they could defeat the British. This was the kick start they needed to win the Revolution.
Battle of Fort Ticonderoga
Jane McCrea, of Scot-Irish ancestry, was engaged to a British lieutenant under General Burgoyne during the Battle of Fort Ticonderoga. Once the colonial defenders abandoned Fort Ticonderoga and Fort Edward, settlers abandoned their homes. Jane McCrea was captured by Native American scouts sent by Burgoyne. She was later found shot several times and scalped. After McCrea’s death was discovered, enlistments increased, specifically for the Battle of Saratoga. The British denounced their Indian allies, but it was too late. The atrocity fueled the fires of hatred.