The surrender of Fort Washington was a significant event in the American Revolutionary War that took place on November 16, 1776. The fort, which was located in present-day Washington Heights, Manhattan, was an important strategic location for the Continental Army. However, despite the efforts of the soldiers who manned the fort, it fell to the British after a fierce battle.

2,000 Soldiers Lost

The fort was commanded by Colonel Robert Magaw and manned by around 2,800 soldiers, many of whom were inexperienced and poorly equipped. On November 15, 1776, the British, under the command of General Sir William Howe, launched an attack on the fort. The American soldiers put up a strong resistance, but they were outnumbered and outgunned. After a day of intense fighting, the fort was overrun and the surviving American soldiers were forced to surrender. Many of those who seurvived were forced to squalid British prison ships, wehere they died of disease and exposure.

A Major Blow to the Continental Position

The surrender of Fort Washington was a major setback for the Continental Army. The loss of the fort and the capture of so many soldiers was a blow to the morale of the American troops. It also meant that the British now had control of the high ground overlooking the Hudson River, which made it difficult for the Continental Army to move supplies and troops in and out of New York City. The battle also had a significant impact on the civilian population of the area. Many of the residents who lived near the fort were forced to flee their homes as the battle raged, and many were killed or injured. The battle also caused extensive damage to the fort and the surrounding area.

All was Not Lost

Despite the defeat at Fort Washington, the Continental Army was able to regroup and continue the fight for independence. The American soldiers, under the leadership of General George Washington, were able to score important victories in the months that followed, such as the Battle of Trenton and the Battle of Princeton.