On This Day: The siege of Quebec is collapsing
The following is an installment of “On This Day,” a series celebrating America’s 250th anniversary by following the actions of Gen. George Washington, the Continental Congress, and the men and women whose bravery and sacrifice led up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
TL;DR
- The American army besieging Quebec is in a dire state, with only 1,000 out of 1,900 men fit for duty, primarily due to smallpox.
- Critical shortages of gunpowder (150 lb.) and provisions (six days' supply) plague the army.
- Local French inhabitants are disaffected and provide little support or supplies.
- British reinforcements have arrived, with 15 ships sighted and five landing troops near Quebec.
- Facing overwhelming odds and a lack of defensive positions, the American army has begun a strategic retreat up the St. Lawrence River.
- Key supplies, including cannon and two tons of powder, were intercepted by a British frigate.