Battle Description

The Battle of Rhode Island was part of a failed attempt by American and French forces to expel the British from Newport. After the arrival of the French fleet under Admiral d’Estaing, General John Sullivan led a combined force to besiege British positions on Aquidneck Island. However, the French withdrew due to storm damage and naval concerns, leaving the Americans without naval support.

On August 29, 1778, British and Hessian troops attacked the American lines near Butts Hill. The Continental Army, including the notable 1st Rhode Island Regiment composed largely of African American and Native American soldiers, held firm against repeated assaults. After a day of fighting, Sullivan ordered a strategic withdrawal from the island.

Outcome

• Outcome: Tactical stalemate; strategic British hold.
• Casualties:
  • American: ~211 killed, wounded, or missing
  • British/Hessian: ~260 killed, wounded, or missing

Significance on the Revolution

Though the battle ended in a stalemate, it marked the first major engagement involving French forces and highlighted the challenges of joint operations. The performance of the 1st Rhode Island Regiment was widely praised, and their role became an early symbol of African American military service. The battle also demonstrated the resilience of American forces and the difficulty of dislodging entrenched British positions without naval superiority.