90 Miles From Tyranny : September 26, 1777: British Forces Occupy Philadelphia

British forces under General William Howe occupied Philadelphia on September 26, 1777, during the American Revolutionary War. [1, 2]

Background and Campaign

Strategic goal: General Howe wanted to capture Philadelphia because it was the American capital and the meeting place of the Continental Congress. He also hoped to draw General George Washington into a decisive battle. [1]
The approach: Instead of marching across New Jersey, Howe sailed about 15,000 British and German troops up the Chesapeake Bay and landed in late August 1777 in Maryland, roughly 60 miles south of the city. [1, 2, 3, 4]
Brandywine: Washington tried to block the British, but his forces were outflanked and defeated at the Battle of Brandywine on September 11, 1777. [1, 2]

The Occupation

Flight of Congress: The Continental Congress fled the city, moving first to Lancaster and later to York, Pennsylvania. [1, 2]
Entering the city: On September 26, 1777, Howe marched unopposed into Philadelphia, stationing a garrison in the city while quartering remaining troops nearby in Germantown. [1]
Social life: The British occupation lasted for nearly nine months. British officers enjoyed a lively social scene filled with parties, dances, and theatrical performances, contrasting sharply with the harsh winter conditions endured by Washington's army nearby at Valley Forge. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]

Evacuation

French alliance: After France recognized the United States and entered the war against Great Britain, British strategy shifted.
Departure: Threatened by French naval and military intervention, British forces evacuated Philadelphia on June 18, 1778, ending the occupation. [1, 2]

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