June 17, 1775 · Northern Theater
June 17, 1775
After colonial forces fortified Breed's Hill (adjacent to Bunker Hill) overlooking Boston Harbor, British General Howe ordered three frontal assaults up the slope. Twice the redcoats were driven back with devastating losses. On the third charge, colonial powder ran out and the Patriots were forced from the hill with bayonets. The famous order 'Don't fire until you see the whites of their eyes' epitomized the disciplined American defense.
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