Washington decided to fight the British in Virginia instead of New York. How would he prepare for battle?
New York, New York
George Washington worked with the French to reclaim New York. In the end, they decided that it was better to battle in the south, towards Virginia.
Planning for New York
The Battle of the Chesapeake
The Battle of the Chesapeake, or the Battle of the Virginia Capes, happened before Yorktown between the French and British navies. It was the first major naval defeat of the British by the French since 1690.
More on the Battle
George Washington: Spymaster
To keep the British from guessing their plans, Washington started an act of deception. His spies purposefully lost papers with fake plans, and fake camps were set up around New York.
Why spies?Video
The French Vs. The British
Which navy was better - the Frency Navy, or the British Navy? Click the link to watch a short video to learn more.
George Washington's Role in the Battle of the Chesapeake
What was Washington's role in this naval battle? Watch a short video to learn more.
How did Washington prepare for Yorktown?
Primary Source: The Sea Fight
This map outlines where each ship was in the Battle of the Chesapeake. It also includes "observations and references" of the battle.
Primary Source: The Battle Explained
The Marquis de Lafayette updated Washington on the Battle of the Chesapeake (also known as the Battle of the Virginia Capes) in this letter.
Primary Source: Purchase of Goods for the French
This ledger shows what exactly was purchased for the French navy during the Revolutionary War. It contains things like bread, flour, and butter.
Primary Sources
Click the links to explore Primary Sources on the American Revolution
Secondary Sources
Click the links to read Secondary Sources on the American Revolution
Watch Now or Never
Learn how the Continental Army won the Revolution with this 30 minute film!