Battle Description

The Battle of Long Island, also known as the Battle of Brooklyn, was the first major engagement after the Declaration of Independence and the largest battle of the Revolutionary War in terms of troop numbers. On August 27, 1776, British forces under General William Howe launched a flanking maneuver against General George Washington’s Continental Army, which was defending Brooklyn Heights.

The British successfully exploited a poorly guarded pass and attacked the American rear, causing confusion and heavy losses. Washington and his commanders managed a daring nighttime evacuation across the East River, saving the bulk of the army from capture.

Outcome

• Outcome: British victory; Americans forced to retreat from Long Island.
• Casualties:
  • American: ~300 killed, ~1,000 wounded or captured
  • British/Hessian: ~60 killed, ~300 wounded

Significance on the Revolution

The defeat at Long Island was a sobering moment for the Continental Army and exposed weaknesses in its organization and intelligence. However, Washington’s successful retreat preserved the army and allowed the war to continue. The battle marked the beginning of the British campaign to capture New York City, which would remain under British control for the rest of the war.