In a strategic move during the American Revolutionary War, Patriot revolutionary forces under the command of General Richard Montgomery successfully occupied Montreal. Montgomery's expedition aimed to exploit the unrest in Canada and secure a foothold by rallying support from the French-speaking population. In the months leading up to this event, the conflict was escalating between the colonies and Great Britain, persuading some American leaders to envision an expansion of the revolution beyond the Thirteen Colonies.

Montgomery, who had previously served in the British army, understood the importance of Montreal as a logistical and strategic hub. He arrived in the city with a contingent of troops after a series of skirmishes, successfully leveraging local support to ensure a peaceful occupation. This approach was crucial in gaining favorable sentiment among the residents. The occupation set the stage for further military campaigns in Canada and enhanced the prospects of cooperation with the French Canadians.

Montgomery's successes in Montreal were pivotal in the broader context of the Revolutionary War. The hope was to rally Canadian support against British authority, which reflected a growing desire for independence not just within the Thirteen Colonies but also across North America. While the subsequent campaign towards Quebec would prove challenging, the occupation of Montreal demonstrated the revolutionary forces' capability and ambition to extend their reach beyond their existing borders.