The Battle of Saratoga is considered the turning point in the war for independence. With the American victory, it proved to the world that the Americans were serious and powerful enough to defeat the highly trained British forces.

The Battle of Saratoga was actually two battles - the Battle of Freeman's Farm and the Battle of Bemis Heights.

The American forces were under the command of General Horatio Gates, and assisted by General Philip Schuyler and General Benedict Arnold. General Burgoyne led the British forces. Gates lost the first battle and after a disagreement with Arnold about battle tactics, Gates relieved Arnold of his command. The British forces were exhausted but were ordered to attack Bemis Heights. While Gates defensive moves were effective, it was General Arnold who saw an opening to turn the battle into an offensive move. Despite having been relieved of his command, Arnold joined the battle anyway. His efforts were so successful and the British troops so beaten down that General Burgoyne was forced to surrender a few days at Saratoga.

Upon hearing of the American victory at Saratoga, the French declared recognition of the United States of America and fully supported their war of independence.