Final answer:
The death of Robert Ross was a critical loss for the British because he was a key military strategist, and his death weakened their leadership and strategy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The death of Robert Ross was a critical loss for the British because he was a key military strategist.
Ross personally led 5,000 British troops on their march to Baltimore during the War of 1812. His death weakened the British army's leadership and strategy, hindering their ability to successfully continue the attack.
The loss of Ross had significant consequences for the British, as it halted their advance, forced them to retreat, and ultimately led to the British breaking off their attack and sailing for New Orleans.