Final answer:
The Battle of Bunker Hill, mainly fought on Breed's Hill, was an early Revolutionary War battle where American forces proved their capability against the British before running out of ammunition and retreating.
Step-by-step explanation:
The battle that showed America they could hold their own against the British before being forced to retreat due to a shortage of ammunition is commonly referred to as the Battle of Bunker Hill, although it mainly took place on Breed's Hill. This engagement early in the American Revolutionary War demonstrated to the Americans their ability to confront one of the most formidable armies of the time.
Initially, the Americans were successful at repelling two British assaults, inflicting heavy casualties. The British were temporarily stymied partly because they brought the wrong ammunition for their cannons. However, after calling up reinforcements, the British launched a third attack that overwhelmed the American defenses due to their dwindling ammunition supplies. Important figures such as Major Pitcairn and Joseph Warren were killed during the intense fighting. Despite having to retreat and suffering losses, this battle boosted American morale and showed that the Continental forces were capable of standing their ground.