In the summer of 1776, America had declared its independence, but independence was far from secure. The British were determined to crush the rebellion, and they sent one of the largest military forces ever assembled in North America to New York. The British sent two brothers, General William Howe leading the Army and Lord Richard Howe leading the Navy, to end the rebellion.
The result was the Battle of Long Island, fought on August 27, 1776. It would become the largest battle of the American Revolutionary War by the number of soldiers engaged, with over 34,000 total, and one of the most important early battles of the conflict.
General George Washington had moved his Continental Army into New York to defend the city against the approaching British army. Washington understood the importance of New York. If the British captured the city, they would gain control of one of the largest major ports in America. It was also an important strategic position, if the British controlled the Hudson River, flowing from the North to New York City, they would split the colonies in two.
The British land force was commanded by General William Howe and included British soldiers and German Mercenary troops, being used for the first time in America. A powerful Royal Navy fleet supported them under the command of Lord Richard Howe. Washington’s army was greatly outnumbered and faced an enemy with more experienced soldiers and superior resources…