British Attack on Surrendering Continentals
In the conflict at the Waxhaws, British forces, led by Lieutenant Colonel Banastre Tarleton, attacked Continental troops who were in the process of laying down their arms. Despite the Americans' surrender, the British continued their assault, resulting in the death of 113 soldiers and leaving 53 wounded. The brutal nature of the attack shocked both American civilians and military leaders during the Revolutionary War.
Tarleton led British troops in the assault.
Continentals were attacked while surrendering.
113 American soldiers were killed.
The massacre intensified anti-British sentiment.
What Happened?
The Waxhaws Massacre occurred during the American Revolutionary War near the intersection of North and South Carolina on May 29, 1780. Lieutenant Colonel Banastre Tarleton of the British Army led the charge against the Continental forces, commanded by Colonel Abraham Buford. After a running engagement that hindered the Continental troops, Buford's men, numbering around 400, found themselves outmaneuvered and overwhelmed by Tarleton’s cavalry and infantry. In a tragic twist, after Buford’s troops signaled their intention to surrender by laying down their arms, the British forces did not abide by the rules of engagement. Instead of accepting the surrender, they launched a brutal attack against the disarmed soldiers. The ensuing chaos led to the deaths of 113 soldiers, while another 53 were critically wounded. The violent confrontation at Waxhaws raised deep concerns among the revolutionaries regarding the conduct of the British Army, and stirred up anti-British sentiments across the colonies, particularly among those sympathetic to the Patriot cause.
Why Does it Matter?
The Waxhaws Massacre is a significant incident in the American Revolutionary War because it highlighted the ruthless tactics employed by British commanders and the human cost of the conflict. It garnered extensive media attention and fueled further recruitment for the Continental Army as well as the resolve of American patriots to oppose British rule. The event also influenced public perception of British military ethics, often demonizing British officers and compounding support for the revolutionary cause amidst the colonists.