Which battle led to the surrender of the British army and effectively ended the Revolutionary War?

The Battle of Yorktown, fought in 1781, is recognized as the decisive confrontation that led to the surrender of British General Cornwallis and his forces. This battle marked the culmination of the military efforts of the Continental Army, coupled with the assistance of French forces. The American and French troops effectively besieged Yorktown, trapping the British on land while the French navy prevented any maritime escape.

The significance of this battle cannot be overstated; it directly resulted in negotiations that eventually concluded the Revolutionary War with the signing of the Treaty of Paris in 1783. The successful siege demonstrated the effectiveness of colonial cooperation and strategy, leading to a shift in the perception of the conflict both internationally and domestically, thereby securing American independence.

In contrast, the other battles listed served different strategic purposes and had varying impacts on the war. The Battle of Bunker Hill was mainly a morale booster for the colonists but did not lead to a conclusive victory. The Battle of Saratoga, while a turning point that convinced France to enter the war on the side of the Americans, was not the final battle that ended the conflict. Similarly, the Battle of Lexington was the initial skirmish that ignited the war, but it did not play a role