May 12 in American History

May 12, 1780 — Charleston falls to the British

The British captured Charleston, South Carolina, along with some 5,000 American troops — the worst American defeat of the Revolution. It looked like the war in the South was lost. But partisan fighters kept the cause alive in the backcountry, and within 18 months the tide would turn toward Yorktown. Down was not out.

Common Questions

What happened on May 12 in American history?

In 1780: Charleston falls to the British. The British captured Charleston, South Carolina, along with some 5,000 American troops — the worst American defeat of the Revolution.

Why is May 12 significant?

The British captured Charleston, South Carolina, along with some 5,000 American troops — the worst American defeat of the Revolution. It looked like the war in the South was lost. But partisan fighters kept the cause alive in the backcountry, and within 18 months the tide would turn toward Yorktown. Down was not out.

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