What was the last major battle during the American Revolutionary War?

The last major battle of the American Revolutionary War was the Battle of Yorktown, which took place in 1781. This battle was significant because it marked a decisive victory for the American forces, primarily led by General George Washington and supported by French troops under General Rochambeau. The successful siege at Yorktown effectively trapped British General Cornwallis and his army, forcing their surrender.

Yorktown is notable not only for its military outcome but also for its strategic implications, as it ultimately led to the negotiations that resulted in the Treaty of Paris in 1783, which recognized American independence. The battle symbolized the culmination of the colonists’ struggle for freedom and showcased the collaboration between American and French forces, reinforcing the importance of international alliances in the conflict.

In contrast, the other options relate to earlier phases of the war. The Battle of Saratoga, for instance, was crucial for convincing France to join the war as an ally but occurred several years prior to Yorktown. Lexington was the site of the initial skirmish that marked the outbreak of the Revolutionary War, while Valley Forge served as a winter encampment where the Continental Army endured significant hardships but did not represent a battle.