On September 19,1777 & October 7,1777,The Two Battles of Saratoga,British General John Burgoyne,who was the leader of the British army,achieved a small but costly victory over American forces led by Horatio Gates and Benedict Arnold.Though his troop strength had been weakened,Burgoyne again attacked the Americans at Bemis Heights on October 7th,but this time defeated and was forced to retreat.He surrendered ten days later,and the American victory convinced the French Government to formally recognize the colonist's cause and enter the war as their ally.
To celebrate the American victory at Saratoga, the Continental Congress issued a proclamation for a national day"""for Solemn Thanksgiving and Praise""the first official holiday observance with that name.
