The French and Indian War (The Seven Years War) took place between 1756 and 1763. Although the battle at Saratoga was not a part of this War, the French and Indian War was the impetus for the Revolutionary War. Austria, England, France, Great Britain, Prussia, and Sweden were all players in this game that occurred across the globe. Ultimately, Great Britain was the winner claiming the colonial outposts in North America.

Now seriously in debt, Great Britain needed to recover the funds lost in both America and India. They chose to begin taxing its colonies by imposing several “Acts” such as the Sugar Act (1764), The Currency Act (!764), the Stamp Act (!765), Declaratory Act (!766), Townsend Revenue Act (1767), Tea Act (1773) and many others. I included the dates to show that the Revolutionary War didn’t just occur; it was a gradual and constant usurpation of liberties inflicted upon the citizens creating the need to fight back. Once things got started, there was no putting things back. Soon the Declaration of Independence would be adopted, and the war would soon begin.

The Revolutionary War was also a civil war. Those loyal to the crown fought with the British, and those wanting independence fought with the Americans. Often this split families and friends, and each citizen would eventually need to take a side. So, on this battlefield in Saratoga, a brother would fight a brother. The British would surrender on October 17, 1777, providing legitimacy abroad to the American cause and a much-needed boost in morale for the patriots. 

As you look out across the battlefield from the visitors’ center, you will see a much-unchanged landscape from the time of the battles. If anything, there are a few more trees and a bit less mud. There is a four-mile walking tour that takes you through the field to important locations. Additionally, there is an audio tour that accompanies the trek. The tour has you consider the perspective of those who fought there, so I included the beginning paragraphs to provide context.

There are other locations related to the battles that took place here. Unfortunately, most were closed at the time of our visit. I look forward to finding out more about our shared American history as we continue our travels.