Final answer:
The Siege of Yorktown in 1781 saw American and French forces surrounding and forcing the surrender of British General Charles Cornwallis's army, leading to the end of major combat in the American Revolution.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Siege of Yorktown
The Americans and French forces surrounded the British at the Battle of Yorktown, which forced British General Charles Cornwallis to surrender. The siege of Yorktown took place in 1781 and was a decisive victory that marked the end of major combat operations in the American Revolution. The combined American and French forces, totaling over 17,000 troops, trapped Cornwallis's army on the Yorktown peninsula, preventing any escape. Despite Cornwallis's hope for relief from Lieutenant General Henry Clinton, it became clear that no help would arrive in time. Following an unsuccessful breakout attempt, Cornwallis was forced to surrender on October 19, 1781, effectively ending British hopes of suppressing the rebellion.
The Battle of Saratoga, on the other hand, is often considered the turning point in the Revolutionary War as it convinced the French to support the Americans and was key to securing future French military assistance. However, it was the victory at Yorktown that cemented American independence and led to the Treaty of Paris, where Great Britain recognized the independence of the United States.