Tuesday, October 6, 2026

Question: What role did the French navy play in ensuring the success of the Yorktown Campaign?

Answer: Under François Joseph Paul, comte de Grasse, the French navy seized control of Chesapeake Bay after defeating the British fleet at the Battle of the Capes. This blockade prevented British reinforcements or escape by sea, isolating Lord Cornwallis’ army and allowing the allied land forces to complete the siege that forced the British surrender.