| After the Battle of
Lexington and Concord, the patriot militia controlled the
hills surrounding Boston. The patriots heard through
their spies that the British were planning to attack
Bunker Hill. The patriots sent 1600 men to set up
fortifications on Breed's Hill, which was closer to
Boston.
On June 17, 1775 General Howe led 2600 British
soldiers up Breed's Hill. British warships also fired on
the patriots position.
The Americans held off two British charges, but were
finally forced to retreat on the third charge. The
British suffered heavy losses with 226 men killed and 828
more wounded. The British gained control of Breed's Hill. |
Battle of Bunker Hill (Source: Library of
Congress) |
