Battle of Saratoga 1777
The Battles of Saratoga were a series of battles. The main leader for the British was General John Burgoyne. He had the nickname "Gentleman Johnny". The Americans were led by Major General Horatio Gates as well as Generals Benedict Arnold and Benjamin Lincoln. Other key commanders included Colonel Daniel Morgan and General Enoch Poor . British General Burgoyne had come up with a plan to defeat the American colonies. The first battle of Saratoga took place on September 19, 1777 on the farmland of British loyalist John Freeman. After the Battle of Freeman's Farm the Americans set up their defenses at Bemis Heights .British casualties mounted to nearly 600 men and General Burgoyne was forced to retreat. The Americans under General Gates pursued the British army. Within days, they had them surrounded. The British surrendered on October 17, 1777. These were important battles because the French were hesitant to join America's side but this war showed that America could still win. The French sent money, supplies, soldiers, and navy to help the Americans.