Samuel Adams Drake
Burgoyne's Invasion of 1777
With an outline sketch of the American Invasion of Canada, 1775-76.
"Burgoyne's Invasion of 1777" by Samuel Adams Drake is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book centers on the pivotal military campaign led by British General John Burgoyne during the American Revolutionary War, particularly focusing on the events of 1777 that would have significant consequences for the outcome of the conflict. It delves into the strategic errors, decisions made by various military leaders, and the broader implications of the campaign on American independence. At the start of the narrative, the author introduces General Burgoyne as a complex figure characterized by ambition and bravado but also significant miscalculations regarding the American forces. Drake outlines the context of the Revolutionary War, the precarious situation of the American colonies, and Burgoyne's initial confidence stemming from his prior military successes. The opening chapters set the stage by discussing Burgoyne's invasion plan, the significance of key fortifications like Ticonderoga, and the consequences of early skirmishes, hinting at the challenges he would face as the campaign unfolded. Through a blend of character studies and military strategies, the text begins to unravel the tragic trajectory of Burgoyne's expedition.