Battle Description

The Battle of Bunker Hill was one of the earliest and most iconic engagements of the Revolutionary War. Although named after Bunker Hill, most of the fighting occurred on nearby Breed’s Hill. On June 17, 1775, British forces under General William Howe launched a frontal assault on colonial fortifications built overnight by the Continental Army and Massachusetts militia.

Despite being outnumbered and low on ammunition, the Patriots repelled two British assaults before being overwhelmed on the third. The British technically won the battle by taking the ground, but they suffered staggering losses in the process.

Outcome

• Outcome: British tactical victory; American strategic and moral victory.
• Casualties:
  • British: ~226 killed, ~828 wounded
  • American: ~115 killed, ~305 wounded or captured

Significance on the Revolution

The Battle of Bunker Hill proved that colonial forces could stand up to the British Army in open combat. The high British casualties shocked military leaders and Parliament, leading to more cautious tactics in future engagements. For the Americans, the battle became a rallying point, reinforcing the legitimacy of the Continental Army and the seriousness of the conflict. The phrase “Don’t fire until you see the whites of their eyes” became legendary, symbolizing Patriot discipline and resolve.