Image: Reclamation of Savannah - georgia.gov

Although the revolution was in full swing by 1775, Georgia remained somewhat isolated from the revolution until 1778. Nevertheless, the British regarded the Patriot south as crucial for subduing the revolution. In 1778, British warships off the coast of New York headed south for the purposes of capturing several crucial ports. Savannah, Georgia offered little resistance and was easily captured. The British soon spread out throughout the state and virtually controlled all of Georgia.

In the summer of 1779, General Benjamin Lincoln put together a small force in an attempt to take Savannah back. Lincoln had procured the services of French Admiral Valerie D' Estaing and his naval force to block British reinforcements from the sea. Before long, the city of Savannah was completely surrounded. During the time it took to build the blockade, British forces at Savannah had time to fortify the
city. On October 9th, Lincoln and D'Estaing bomarded the city. British General Augustine Provost and forces, however, repelled the attack and forced the Patriots to retreat. 800 French and Patriot soldiers were killed.