The Battle of Jersey took place on 6 January 1781 when French forces during the American Revolutionary War unsuccessfully invaded the British-ruled island of Jersey to remove the threat it posed to French and American shipping. Jersey provided a base for British privateers, and France was engaged in the war as an ally of the newly created United States.
The French expedition was defeated, losing nearly half its force, including its commander, Baron Philippe de Rullecourt, who died of wounds sustained in the fighting. The battle is often remembered for the death of the British commander, Major Peirson, and a painting based on his final moments by John Singleton Copley.
1781Jan, 6
In the Battle of Jersey, the British defeat the last attempt by France to invade Jersey.
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Events on 1781
- 5Jan
Richmond, Virginia
American Revolutionary War: Richmond, Virginia, is burned by British naval forces led by Benedict Arnold. - 17Jan
Battle of Cowpens
American Revolutionary War: Battle of Cowpens: Continental troops under Brigadier General Daniel Morgan defeat British forces under Lieutenant Colonel Banastre Tarleton at the battle in South Carolina. - 15Mar
Battle of Guilford Court House
American Revolutionary War: Battle of Guilford Court House: Near present-day Greensboro, North Carolina, 1,900 British troops under General Charles Cornwallis defeat a mixed American force numbering 4,400 in a Pyrrhic victory. - 24Aug
Lochry's Defeat
American Revolutionary War: A small force of Pennsylvania militia is ambushed and overwhelmed by an American Indian group, which forces George Rogers Clark to abandon his attempt to attack Detroit. - 17Oct
Siege of Yorktown
American Revolutionary War: British General Charles, Earl Cornwallis surrenders at the Siege of Yorktown.