Ep 18. Revolutionary War: Oriskany

In season 3 episode 18 of Battlefield Detectives, viewers are taken back in time to the Revolutionary War and the pivotal Battle of Oriskany. This battle took place on August 6, 1777, during a British campaign to capture the strategically important Hudson River valley and isolate New England from the rest of the colonies.

Led by General Nicholas Herkimer, a group of American militiamen and Oneida Indian warriors attempted to relieve the besieged fort at Fort Stanwix. However, they were ambushed by a force of British regulars, German mercenaries, and Native American allies led by General Barry St. Leger. The resulting battle was one of the bloodiest of the war, with heavy casualties on both sides.

Using a combination of on-location filming, computer animation, historical reenactment, and expert analysis, the Battlefield Detectives team pieces together the events of that fateful day and explores the strategies and tactics employed by both sides. They also examine the roles played by key individuals such as General Herkimer and the Oneida chief Han Yerry Daughtery.

One of the challenges faced by the American forces was their lack of discipline and training compared to the highly drilled British regulars. They also suffered from a shortage of weapons and equipment, which made it difficult to mount a cohesive defense. In contrast, the British had superior firepower and were able to make use of their expertise in wilderness warfare to gain a tactical advantage.

Despite these challenges, the American militiamen and Oneida warriors demonstrated remarkable bravery and resourcefulness, fighting doggedly against overwhelming odds. They also made effective use of terrain and cover to minimize their losses. The battle ultimately ended inconclusively, with the Americans retreating to Fort Stanwix and the British failing to achieve their objective of capturing it.

Through interviews with historians and battlefield experts, the Battlefield Detectives team helps viewers gain a deeper understanding of the strategies and tactics employed by both sides, and sheds light on the human cost of this crucial battle. Rather than simply recounting historical facts and figures, they bring the story to life with vivid reenactments and detailed analyses of the weapons, tactics, and terrain involved.

Overall, Revolutionary War: Oriskany is a fascinating and engaging look at one of the most decisive battles of the American Revolution. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about the events that shaped our nation's founding, this episode is sure to entertain and enlighten.