What was the mistake British general Charles Cornwallis made that ultimately caused his defeat?

Answer 1

The mistake made by British General Charles Cornwallis that ultimately led to his defeat was his decision to occupy the town of Yorktown, Virginia. In 1781, Cornwallis and his troops established a fortified camp on the Yorktown Peninsula, hoping to receive reinforcement and supplies from the British navy. However, the expected naval support was delayed, and instead, a combined force of American Continental Army troops commanded by General George Washington and French troops commanded by General Jean-Baptiste Rochambeau marched southward and laid siege to Yorktown.

Cornwallis had underestimated the strength and speed of the American and French forces, as well as their coordination. The Allies were able to establish a blockade preventing Cornwallis from receiving supplies or reinforcements, effectively isolating him and his troops. When the British navy finally arrived, it was unable to break through the blockade due to the presence of the French fleet under Admiral François Joseph Paul de Grasse.

Facing a prolonged siege, dwindling supplies, and the realization that no reinforcements could reach him, Cornwallis attempted a risky escape across the York River. However, his plan failed, partly due to bad weather. Faced with this failure, Cornwallis finally surrendered on October 19, 1781, effectively ending the British campaign in the Southern colonies and ultimately leading to the formal recognition of American independence.