LONG ISLAND, BATTLE OF
\lˈɒŋ ˈa͡ɪlənd], \lˈɒŋ ˈaɪlənd], \l_ˈɒ_ŋ ˈaɪ_l_ə_n_d]\
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August 27, 1776. The British plan of campaign was now to crush Washington in New York, seize the Hudson and thus divide the colonial forces. As Washington was inferior in numbers and efficiency he occupied Brooklyn Heights with 9000 men. Howe's only course was to dislodge him. He lauded his men at Gravesend, L. I., and after four days' reconnoitring advanced in three divisions, 20,000 strong. Two divisions met the American outposts, 5000 in number, under Stirling and Sullivan. On the arrival of the third division in their rear they utterly routed the Americans and captured Stirling and Sullivan and 1000 of their men. The British now appeared before the American position, but refrained from an assault, preferring a siege. Clearly perceiving the danger of such a course Washington conveyed his army over to New York under cover of night, thus brilliantly snatching from the enemy the fruits of his victory; for although New York had been taken, the colonial army was still unsubdued.
By John Franklin Jameson