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AP History: The Battle Of Cowpens

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AP History: The Battle Of Cowpens
AP History

The Battle of Cowpens was a very significant battle taking place on January 17, 1781. This battle was a huge victory, unexpectedly won giving hope to colonists fighting for freedom. This battle took place in South Carolina on the border of North Carolina and although it seemed small the effect was huge. It has been said that 1000 American soldiers fought off 1100 British soldiers and American Loyalists. General Greene gave orders commanding his men to split up sending General Daniel Morgan to western South Carolina. The men were to head towards the British post 96. In response the British General Cornwallis sent General Tarleton and some men in hopes of defeating the colonists. Tarleton quickly arrived causing Morgan to make …show more content…
The front scouts were quickly shot down by American militia. Then the battle began. Tarleton was known for unruly battle behavior and his men were usually very difficult to beat. Morgan however realized how predictable Tarleton was, working in the Americans favor. Tarleton sent his dragoon hoping to dismantle riflemen and wanting to disperse them on the battlefield. The militias with their accurate aiming were able to stop the dragoon, driving them back. Tarleton then had his soldiers march towards the Americans. Morgan had his men ready encouraging them to wipe out the officers first. After eliminating the “epaulettes” or British officers, soldiers were left frantic. The American soldiers proceeded to follow orders from their General and took off beyond the hill with guns loaded. With Americans “fleeing” the British thought they were victorious, oblivious to General Morgan’s innovative strategy. Washington’s Calvary then joined in driving back the British dragoon. Morgan met the soldiers where the horses were just like he said and turned them around with their loaded guns hoping for a victory. With the Calvary and all three lines of militia coming from every side, the British collapsed giving the colonists complete
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