The Siege of Boston

Now, do you remember the situation here in 1775? In April, the British occupied Boston.

After hearing what happened in Lexington and Concord, thousands of Patriot militiamen from all over New England made their way to Massachusetts.

They were ready to lend a hand, and a musket, to whatever happened next.

This newly formed militia circled around Boston, hoping a siege would force the British out. And that's what brings us to Bunker Hill.

In May, British reinforcements arrived in Boston to break through the siege.

The militia caught wind that the British intended to occupy the high ground of Bunker Hill, and were hoping to force the Patriots back.

There wasn't a moment to lose. It was midnight, June 17th.

Fortifying Bunker Hill

In a bold move, the Americans' Colonel Prescott decided to fortify Bunker Hill before the British could do so.

This was a crucial and strategic move that would prevent the British from gaining a foothold. So, Prescott led a force of 1,200 men to build fortifications at the top of the hill.

The soldiers worked through the night to dig trenches and build earthen walls in the dark. Many of these militiamen were inexperienced.

If things came to blows, then their first large-scale engagement would be against the powerful British Army, one of the best-trained and best-equipped forces in the world.

That's why Colonel Prescott's demeanor and leadership were crucial. He kept his men focused, despite their exhaustion and the stress of a looming British attack.

Warren Joins the Fight

Just hours before the battle, Dr. Warren arrived in the fortifications.

Because Warren held a high rank in the militia, Colonel Prescott offered to step aside and let Warren take command.

But Warren declined, insisting that Prescott, who had already been organizing the defenses and had more military experience, was better suited to lead.

Besides, Warren preferred to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the other patriots on the front lines.

British React at Dawn

As dawn broke on that June morning, the British in Boston awoke to a shocking sight. A well-defended redoubt, or improvised fort, on Bunker Hill.

Do you remember British General Thomas Gage, the commander-in-chief and governor? Well, he was stunned.

The colonists had taken the high ground, an act of defiance he could not ignore. And they were actually organized. He had a decision to make, and quickly.

And we're going to find out what exactly that decision was, up on Bunker Hill.