British Forces Land on Long Island in Revolutionary War

Summary

In the summer of 1776, following the American Declaration of Independence, British commanders sought to crush the rebellion by capturing New York City and controlling the strategic Hudson River. General William Howe assembled a massive expeditionary force of over 20,000 troops, including British regulars and Hessian auxiliaries, on Staten Island. On August 22, 1776, an advance guard of about 4,000 soldiers landed unopposed at Gravesend Bay on the western end of Long Island, with the main body following to establish camps near Flatbush. American forces under General George Washington, numbering around 7,000 on the island, had prepared defensive positions along a ridge but left key passes lightly guarded. The landing marked the start of the largest battle of the Revolutionary War and set the stage for a major British victory days later.

Why It Matters

The successful landing allowed British forces to outflank American defenses and capture New York City, which remained in British hands until the war's end. It demonstrated the challenges of defending against superior naval power and forced Washington to refine his strategy of avoiding decisive engagements while preserving his army.

Related Portfolio Site

US Military Atlas: Major U.S. Revolutionary War battle and landing operation

Sources

1. Redcoats land at Long Island, HISTORY.com. Accessed 2026-07-02.