Final answer:
The Battle of Yorktown forced the British to start peace negotiations with the Americans, ultimately leading to the end of the war and the recognition of American independence.
Step-by-step explanation:
The battle that forced the British government to commence peace negotiations with the Americans was D) the Battle of Yorktown. This significant defeat at Yorktown made the outcome of the war almost certain for the British, leading the Parliament to vote for ending military operations against the rebels. The surrender of General Cornwallis at Yorktown to the American and French forces signaled a decisive victory, leading to the evacuation of British forces and eventually to the signing of the Treaty of Paris, which officially recognized American independence.