fought 19 September 1777 in which Gates lost ground to the British Disagreements in tactics and personalities led to a heated argument between generals Gates and Arnold, and Gates relieved Arnold of command as a result. The Battle of Bemis Heights was the second battle of Saratoga, taking place October 7th when Burgoyne desperately attacked rebel defenses with his tired, demoralized army.At Bemis Heights, Gate's defensive tactics had insured a tactical victory for the Patriots. However, Arnold saw an opportunity to seize the offensive while Burgoyne was vulnerable and led a counterattack. This bold move so badly wounded the British forces that they surrendered days later at Saratoga. The attack began at roughly 3 PM, and the Americans repeatedly broke through the British line and pushed the enemy back, only to be repelled once the British leaders rallied their scattered forces to stage a counter- offensive. Benedict Arnold, who had been removed from command by Gates, saw an opportunity to press the advantage of the weakened British line and rode forward on his horse to take charge (Jones, pg 83). He led them towards the center of the British forces in an effort to separate the units and flank them, forcing a general withdrawal of the British forces into their fortified positions at Freeman's Farm. At that point, Arnold led men to attack the British. With superior numbers on their side, the Americans were able to breach the breastworks of the redoubt and force the British forces. The Battle of Saratoga proved to be a major victory for the Continental Army, a pivotal battle that changed the face of the war. The French took notice to what the Americans were doing and as a result of this battle the French began to support the colonies with troops and supplies. The addition of the French was the end of the British army and the colonies went on to a total victory. The Hudson Valley region went through many changes during the...
