The Siege of Yorktown ended with British General Cornwallis surrendering in 1781.
American and French forces surrounded the British army at Yorktown, Virginia, during the final major campaign of the American Revolutionary War. General George Washington commanded the allied American forces, while French troops and naval power helped prevent a British escape or resupply.
Cornwallis surrendered on October 19, 1781. The defeat severely weakened Britain’s ability and political will to continue the war in North America, although the Treaty of Paris was not signed until 1783.
Yorktown is sometimes described as the final battle of the Revolution, but fighting and military actions continued after the surrender. Its importance lies in its decisive effect on peace negotiations and the recognition of American independence.