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Despite the name, the Battle of Bunker Hill, "one of the most important colonial victories early in the U.S. War of Independence," was actually fought on Breed's Hill in Charlestown, Massachusetts. In the spring of 1775, the British occupied the city of Boston and its harbor. Realizing that they were vulnerable from the nearby hills, they planned to seize the highlands across the harbor on the Charleston peninsula. Catching word of the British plan, the Americans hurried to fortify the area before the British troops arrived. Although ordered to set up camp on Bunker Hill, the rebel troops headed out into the night on June 16, 1775, and secured nearby
Breed's Hill. The question is, of course, why did the American troops take up position on Breed's Hill rather than Bunker Hill as instructed? Theories abound. Some scholars suggest that it was a mistake, due to incorrect maps or miscalculations during the night. Others think it was a strategical decision -- Breed's Hill was closer to the harbor and may have offered a better position. Whatever the reason, the ensuing battle on June 17, 1775, took place on Breed's Hill and lasted about three hours. The American troops were ill-outfitted and low on ammunition. Legend has it that the lack of ammunition led to the infamous order, "Don't fire until you see the whites of their eyes," a call to conserve bullets. After two unsuccessful attempts, the British army finally drove off the rag-tag
American army. Although technically a defeat for the Americans, rebel forces deemed it a "moral victory," proving to the British that they were not so easily defeated. It was a very costly victory for the British and one of the bloodiest battles of the war. To learn more, browse the Google search results for the "Battle of Bunker Hill." Or, if you are up for an adventure this fourth of July, take a trip to the Bunker Hill Monument. Just remember to use a good map and head to the right hill.
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