8m people. Colonies 2.5m. Most Britons supported the war. Support of at least 500,000 loyalists. Native Americans supported Britain. 50,000 strong regular army.
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American Problems
Lack of unity. In 1775 army had to be built from scratch. State militia not as impressive as hoped. Economy disrupted by 7YW. Unable to levy taxes. Money printed to finance war
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American Strengths
Most committed to "glorious cause". Army small but trained in terrain - knowledge. Britain didn't have full naval control, 2000 privateers inflicted heavy damage on British merchants.
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British Problems
Fighting a war 3000 miles away. Two-Three months for reinforcements to arrive. Lack of knowledge of terrain. Lord North not an inspiring war leader
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British strategic problems
Policies would betray/lose loyalist support. Seaboard strategy failed in New England 1775. Pressure for speedy and decisive victory
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American Strategy in 1776
Guerrilla warfare. War of Posts. Offensive confrontation
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General Howe
Began landing at New York. - potentially excellent base. Defeated Americans at the Battle of Long Island, Americans suffered six times as many losses as the British.
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Saratoga
British pushed up further north but encountered American forces at Freeman's Farm on 19th September. They failed to defeat the Americans and had little options. Burgoyne forced to retreat to Saratoga. He was surrounded by double the amount of troops
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Other cards in this set
Card 2
Front
American Problems
Back
Lack of unity. In 1775 army had to be built from scratch. State militia not as impressive as hoped. Economy disrupted by 7YW. Unable to levy taxes. Money printed to finance war
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