Which battle in October 1777 was a decisive colonial victory that helped secure French support for the Revolutionary cause?

The Battle of Saratoga, fought in October 1777, is recognized as a critical turning point in the American Revolutionary War. This battle consisted of two significant engagements, culminating in a decisive victory for the American forces over the British. The importance of Saratoga extended beyond the immediate battlefield; it played a pivotal role in convincing France to openly support the American colonies in their fight for independence.

Following the victory at Saratoga, the American leadership was able to present a compelling case to the French government, demonstrating that the colonies could stand against British forces effectively. This led to the formal alliance between the United States and France in early 1778, which included military support and financial assistance. The French involvement was crucial to the eventual success of the American Revolution, providing additional troops and resources that the colonies desperately needed.

In contrast, the other options represent battles that, while significant, did not have the same immediate impact on foreign alliances or the overall course of the Revolutionary War. The Battle of Yorktown was a decisive victory that effectively ended the war but occurred later, in 1781. The Battle of Lexington was the first military engagement of the war in 1775 and did not result in a clear victory. Similarly, the Battle of Bunker Hill