The siege of Quebec, which began earlier that year, represented a crucial moment in the larger framework of the French and Indian War. French forces, aiming to secure control over New France, had laid siege to the British-held city of Quebec, anticipating a decisive victory. The British, under significant pressure, were running low on supplies and morale as the siege dragged on. However, the arrival of the Royal Navy in May 1760 shifted the balance of power dramatically. The British fleet not only provided much-needed supplies but also signified a stronger military presence in the region.

As the fleet approached, the French commanders assessed the situation and concluded that continuing the siege was unfeasible, recognizing the risk of losing their position should the British Navy reinforce the garrison with troops. Therefore, on the 17th, they made the decision to retreat, abandoning their efforts to capture the city. This retreat was marked by strategic planning and the prioritization of resources, reflecting the broader military strategy employed by both sides during the conflict.

The withdrawal also had immediate effects on the morale of both the British and French troops. For the British, it provided a much-needed morale boost, while for the French, it was a significant setback. The event underscored the importance of naval power in colonial warfare and revealed the growing dominance of British naval strength in North America, ultimately leading to changes in the tactics used by French forces throughout the remainder of the war.