06/17/2026
The Battle of Bunker Hill was one of the first major battles of the American Revolutionary War. It was fought primarily on Breed's Hill in Charlestown, Massachusetts. While it did end in a British victory after colonists retreated after they ran out of ammunition, the colonial militia inflicted devastating casualties on the Redcoats. Over 1,000 British soldiers died compared to ~450 colonists.
This battle helped to prove that the colonial militias were able to stand against the world's most professional and powerful army. This battle also was a turning point for both sides to recognize that peace was no longer an option. As news of the battle and the bravery of the colonial troops spread it served to inspire the 13 colonies, uniting them in their cause. This eventually lead to the creation of the Continental Army under General George Washington.
For more information visit the National Park Service page at https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/historyculture/bhm.htm