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Strategic Victories:
Of all the engagements of the Revolutionary War, two naval battles stand out as crucial to securing American independence. One, fought on an island lake far from the sea, was a tactical defeat for the rebellious colonies. The other battle, which included no American forces, was a tactical draw.
Both battles set in motion a series of events that led to significant land victories. The Battle of Valcour Island may have resulted in lost ships and men for the Americans, but it slowed the British drive to split the American states. The Battle of Virginia Capes, won by America's French allies, forced capitulation of British General Cornwallis' army at Yorktown.
Valcour Island -- October 1776:
British strategy called for the separation of New England from the rest of the colonies along the Richeliue-Champlain-Hudson River corridor. Lake Champlain was vital to the fulfillment of that strategy.
Gen. Benedict Arnold was determined to prevent British control of Lake Champlain. The British had many more ships and greater firepower, so Arnold focused his considerable energy on expanding his fleet.
Arnold initially eluded the enemy, but the British eventually caught up with him and destroyed most of his vessels. Dozens of Americans were killed and many more captured.
Yet there was a glimmer of hope. British commander Guy Carleton could have continued on, claiming territory from Albany to New York City. Instead, he retired north to Canada because he believed it was too late in the season. The following year, the British tried to push south, only to surrender at Saratoga. |