What characterized the Battle of Bunker Hill in 1775?

The Battle of Bunker Hill, fought on June 17, 1775, is primarily characterized by a bloody British attempt to break a colonial siege. This battle took place during the early stages of the American Revolutionary War, specifically when colonial militia were attempting to besiege British forces in Boston. The British aimed to regain control and ultimately dislodge the colonial fighters who were stationed on strategic high ground around Boston, particularly Breed's Hill and Bunker Hill.

Despite being a tactical victory for the British, as they were able to take control of the battlefield, the intense fighting and heavy casualties inflicted upon them—over 1,000 British soldiers were killed or wounded compared to about 450 colonial casualties—served to galvanize the colonial resolve and showed that colonial forces could stand up to the British Army, which was considered one of the strongest military forces in the world at the time. This battle thus became an important moment in the revolutionary struggle, highlighting the fierce resistance from the colonial side and setting the tone for the conflict that followed.