British Occupy New York

Long Island and New York City are captured by the British. British occupy New York when General Howe lands at Kip's Bay, surprising the inexperienced American forces who retreated to Harlem Heights, ceding control of New York City on the lower half of the island. However, Washington established strong positions on Harlem Heights, which he defended in a fierce skirmish between the two armies the following day. General William Howe, unwilling to risk a costly frontal attack, did not attempt to advance further up the island for another two months.