Battle of James Island facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of James Island
Part of the American Revolutionary War
Date November 14, 1782 Location James Island, South Carolina Result British Victory
Belligerents
United States	Great Britain
Commanders and leaders
Tadeusz Kościuszko	William Dansey
Strength
70	300+
Casualties and losses
5 killed, 5 wounded	2 killed, 3 wounded

The Battle of James Island was a small but important fight during the American Revolutionary War. It happened on November 14, 1782, near Charleston, South Carolina. This battle involved American and British soldiers.

At this time, the British were getting ready to leave Charleston. American forces wanted to make sure the British left for good. They tried to surprise British troops who were gathering wood.

The Skirmish Begins

The American soldiers hoped to defeat the British quickly. About 70 American troops were involved in the attack. They aimed to push the British out of the area.

British Reinforcements Arrive

However, the British quickly received more soldiers. Their numbers grew to over 300. This meant the British greatly outnumbered the Americans. The American soldiers were then forced to pull back.

Key Figures and Losses

Several American soldiers were killed in the fight. One of them was Captain William Wilmont. He was the last Continental Army soldier to die in the Carolinas during the war.

Another person involved was William Smith, an African American. He was taken by the British during the battle. Sadly, he died while held by the British.

American Retreat and War's End

After the short fight, the remaining American troops retreated. Soon after this battle, the British left the Americas. This event marked the end of the American Revolutionary War.