Battle of Kings Mountain

The Battle of Kings Mountain, fought on October 7, 1780, was a decisive Patriot victory during the American Revolutionary War. It took place in present-day South Carolina and marked a critical turning point in the southern campaign. This battle is notable for being one of the few where Americans fought Americans, with Patriots battling Loyalists supported by the British.

The Patriot Plan

More than 1,000 Patriot fighters, led by Brigadier General Isaac Shelby and Colonel William Campbell, set out to confront Loyalist forces under Major Patrick Ferguson. These Patriots, often called Overmountain Men, were frontiersmen from the backcountry of the Carolinas. They were determined to protect their homes from British control and Ferguson’s efforts to recruit more Loyalists in the area.

Surprise Attack!

The Patriots launched a surprise attack on Ferguson’s troops, who were camped on Kings Mountain near the North Carolina-South Carolina border. Using their knowledge of frontier warfare, the Patriots surrounded the hill and attacked from all sides. After a fierce battle, the Patriots emerged victorious. The Loyalists suffered heavy losses with about 157 killed and 163 captured, while the Patriots lost 28 men and had 68 wounded. Major Ferguson was killed during the fight.

Effect of the Battle

The Patriot victory at Kings Mountain significantly boosted their morale and weakened Loyalist support in the South. Many Loyalists deserted after the defeat. This battle helped shift momentum in favor of the Patriots, leading to further successes in the southern theater of the Revolutionary War.

Battle of Kings Mountain - an NPS video

Discussion Questions

1. Why was the Battle of Kings Mountain an important turning point in the Revolutionary War?
2. How did the Overmountain Men use their knowledge of frontier warfare to their advantage?
3. Why was it significant that this battle involved Americans fighting Americans?
4. What impact did the death of Major Patrick Ferguson have on the Loyalist forces?

Glossary

• Patriot: Colonists who supported independence from Britain.
• Loyalist: Colonists who remained loyal to the British Crown.
• Overmountain Men: Frontier militia from the Appalachian region who fought for the Patriots.
• Morale: The confidence and spirit of a group during challenging times.

Five Interesting Facts

1. The battle lasted only about an hour but was extremely deadly for the Loyalists.
2. It was one of the rare battles of the Revolution fought almost entirely between Americans.
3. Patrick Ferguson, the Loyalist leader, had warned the Patriots to surrender or face destruction—but he was killed in the battle.
4. The Patriots traveled long distances through rough terrain to surprise the enemy.
5. This victory came just months after the devastating Patriot loss at the Battle of Camden.

Timeline of the Battle

• Summer 1780: British forces strengthen control in the southern colonies.
• September 1780: Patrick Ferguson recruits Loyalist militia in the Carolinas.
• Late September 1780: Overmountain Men gather and march to confront Ferguson.
• October 7, 1780: Battle of Kings Mountain takes place.
• October 7, 1780: Major Patrick Ferguson is killed; Loyalists are defeated.
• October 1780: Over 160 Loyalists are taken prisoner by the Patriots.
• After October 1780: Patriot morale surges; Loyalist support declines.
• 1781: Patriots build on momentum, leading to further southern victories.
• October 1781: British surrender at Yorktown ends major fighting.