March 5, 1776

Patriots Take Dorchester Heights

In the early morning hours, George Washington's troops finish placing artillery from Fort Ticonderoga on previously unoccupied Dorchester Heights, overlooking Boston. Virtually untouchable by British artillery, and with British commanders unwilling to attack, the achievement makes the British occupation of Boston untenable and forces Commander-in-Chief William Howe to evacuate the city, which is completed on March 17.