Battles of Lexington and Concord
1775 · Lexington and Concord (in present-day Massachusetts, United States) · World · Modern
The British failed to find and seize the munitions, and on their return march to Boston they came under continuous attack from militia along the route, escaping only with the help of reinforcements.
Belligerents
Massachusetts militia
- Commanders
- John Parker, James Barrett
- Strength
- Over 3,000 men gradually mustering
British Army
- Commanders
- Lieutenant Colonel Smith, Major Pitcairn, Lord Percy
- Strength
- About 700, later reinforced by about 1,000
Background
After the Boston Tea Party, Britain imposed punitive acts, and the Massachusetts colony organized militia and stockpiled munitions. The British governor, Gage, sent troops on a night raid on Concord, and Paul Revere and others rode through the night to spread the warning.
Course of the battle
- Night marchThe British set out from Boston across the river, while militia messengers raced ahead to raise the alarm along the way.
- Lexington GreenAt dawn the British faced off against the Lexington militia; after a shot of unknown origin, the British opened fire, killing or wounding more than ten militiamen.
- North Bridge, ConcordWhile the British were searching Concord, militia exchanged fire with them at the North Bridge, forcing them to fall back.
- Bloody retreatOn their withdrawal the British were fired on by militia from woods and behind stone walls until Percy's reinforcements arrived and they could retreat to Charlestown.
Outcome at a glance
| Date | 1775 |
|---|---|
| Place | Lexington and Concord (today Massachusetts, United States) |
| Result | The British failed to find and seize the munitions, and on their return march to Boston they came under continuous attack from militia along the route, escaping only with the help of reinforcements. |
| Winner | Massachusetts militia |
| Casualties | The British lost about 300 killed, wounded and missing; the militia about 90-odd (according to commonly cited figures). |
| Territorial change | The militia then besieged Boston, and the American War of Independence broke out in full. |
Impact
The gunfire of that day became known as "the shot heard round the world," marking the turn of the conflict between the North American colonies and Britain into armed struggle.
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