Opening Moves

This chapter sets the political, strategic, and operational context for the Saratoga campaign. Many of the key personalities are introduced to the reader including General Sir William Howe, Admiral Lord Richard Howe, General Sir Guy Carleton, General George Washington, Major General Horatio Gates, Major General Philip Schuyler, and Major General Benedict Arnold. This chapter also covers the American Revolution’s initial military operations including the battles and siege of Boston, the battles on Long Island and Manhattan, and the failed American invasion of Canada, including the attack on and siege of Quebec. The chapter concludes with Washington’s twin victories at Trenton and Princeton and his adoption of a modified Fabian military strategy.