Battle of Monmouth
The Battle of Monmouth, fought on June 28, 1778, marked a significant turning point during the American Revolutionary War. Following the British evacuation of Philadelphia, General George Washington pursued the retreating British forces under General Sir Henry Clinton, culminating in a confrontation near Monmouth Courthouse. The battle began with an initial American attack led by General Charles Lee, which faltered, causing American troops to retreat. However, Washington's leadership proved pivotal as he regrouped his forces and established a defensive line, allowing them to effectively repel multiple British attacks throughout the day.
Fought in extreme heat, the battle resulted in considerable casualties on both sides, with the British suffering over 300 total casualties and the Americans losing approximately 362 soldiers. The engagement highlighted the improving discipline and capability of the Continental Army, reflecting their evolving professionalism. Notably, the Battle of Monmouth became the last major conflict in the northern theater of the war, as Washington's army remained positioned near New York City, awaiting future strategic opportunities. This battle not only underscored the resilience of the American forces but also set the stage for their continued struggle for independence.
Battle of Monmouth
Type of action: Ground battle in the American Revolution
Date: June 28, 1778
Location: Monmouth Courthouse, New Jersey
Combatants: 10,000 Americans vs. 10,000 British
Principal commanders: American, General George Washington (1732–1799); British, General Sir Henry Clinton (1738–1795)
Result: The Americans and British fought to a draw in the last major battle of the American Revolution in the north
On June 18, 1778, General Sir Henry Clinton evacuated Philadelphia after an eight-month occupation and marched toward New York City. George Washington pursued with an army that had been extensively trained by Baron Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben during the preceding winter at Valley Forge. On June 28, the Americans caught the British rearguard near Monmouth Courthouse and attacked at 10:00 a.m. General Charles Lee directed the assault but issued no firm orders, and the Americans were soon in full retreat. Washington rallied his army and organized a new line. The two armies then fought in the sweltering heat until dark, as the Americans repulsed a series of disjointed British attacks. Clinton then withdrew and resumed his march to New York. The British had at least 147 killed, many from sunstroke, 170 wounded, and 64 missing. Washington lost 106 dead, 161 wounded, and 95 missing.
Significance
Monmouth demonstrated the growing professionalism in the American army. For the remainder of the war, the army would be able to stand up to the British in open combat. The battle was also the last major engagement in the north. Washington would station his army near New York City, awaiting an opportunity to attack, until the Yorktown campaign in 1781.
Resources
Kwasny, Mark V. Washington’s Partisan War, 1775–1783. Kent, Ohio: Kent State University Press, 1996.
Middlekauff, Robert. The Glorious Cause: The American Revolution, 1763–1789. New York: Oxford University Press, 1982.
Thayer, Theodore. The Making of a Scapegoat: Washington and Lee at Monmouth. Port Washington, N.Y.: Kennikat, 1976.