Battle of Monmouth

This article is about the battle itself. You may be looking for the memory of the same name.

"Now go! Bring the fight to our enemy! Make them rue the day they marched upon us!"

―Lafayette, shortly before the battle's start, 1778.

The Battle of Monmouth was an event that took place during the American Revolutionary War between the British Army and the Continental Army in Monmouth, on the Frontier. The battle took place on 28 June 1778, and soon became notorious for the heat. Soldiers on both sides were reported to have collapsed from heat stroke due to the excess heat.

Prelude

Commander George Washington had struck camp at Valley Forge, a decision that was met with much criticism from his subordinates, such as Charles Lee, alongside poor leadership. The Assassin Ratonhnhaké:ton assisted Washington's efforts by recovering lost supplies that had been siphoned by the Templar Benjamin Church.

Haytham Kenway and Ratonhnhaké:ton struck an unsteady alliance to uncover the British plans. After ambushing several British commanders, they discover that the British were moving out from New York.

Upon learning this, Washington decided to move out to engage the British forces. However, his relationship with Ratonhnhaké:ton was broken when Haytham discovered orders to attack Kanatahséton under the belief that the Kanien'kehá:ka had sided with the British. Infuriated, Ratonhnhaké:ton rode off to intercept Washington's messengers to stop the conflict.

Battle

Upon his arrival at Monmouth, Ratonhnhaké:ton and Lafayette met to discuss the situation. Charles Lee, who was initially in command of the detachment, had intentionally faltered and caused the troops to panic in order to undermine Washington's reputation so he could obtain the command of the Continental Army for himself.

Lafayette, left to organize the remaining troops, was confident of victory, until he was taken aback by the approach of a large British force. Outnumbered, Lafayette ordered a retreat.

Connor commanding the defenders

To help with the retreat, Ratonhnhaké:ton took charge of several men and a cannon. This rearguard action delayed the British advance to give the Continentals time to regroup.

Ratonhnhaké:ton led the retreat through Monmouth, where the British had broken through and were executing prisoners. Ratonhnhaké:ton prevented these from taking place and rallied the survivors to the main Continental line.

The Continental Army held the British forces off, proving that the fledgling Continental Army was capable of standing up to the more disciplined and experienced Redcoats.

Aftermath

Connor speaking with Washington and Lafayette

After the battle, Ratonhnhaké:ton revealed Lee's treachery to Washington. Though reluctant to believe this, Washington was convinced by Lafayette's testimony.

He arranged for Lee's court-martial, stating that his disobedience had to be handled fairly or else they would be no better than the British. This decision infuriated Ratonhnhaké:ton, who asserted that if Washington did not handle it, Lee would die by Ratonhnhaké:ton's hands.

Washington's orders to march on Kanatahséton left Ratonhnhaké:ton disheartened by a man who he thought would be an ally to his people. He wanted nothing to do with Washington after the battle. Ratonhnhaké:ton parted by advising Washington to enjoy his victory, as this would be the last one Ratonhnhaké:ton would deliver to him.

References

• Assassin's Creed III