Henry Clinton, in charge of British troop in America, is ordered to move to the South. Intelligence reports in Britain indicate that both Georgia and South Carolina have a large Loyalist population who will side with the British. However, to do so means Clinton will have to reduce his manpower in the North. This would open his troop in the northern theater to attack by George Washington. Clinton and his advisors come up with a plan. They send 8,500 troops to Savannah.

The troops from New York, under the command of Lt. Colonel Archibald Campbell, arrive at Tybee Island on December 23, 1778. They are a month late. Forces from St. Augustine under the command of Augustine Prevost join them. Together they march on Savannah.

American forces under General Robert Howe include local militia and Continental soldiers. As the British forces attack the locals flee. There is little the Continentals can do. They retreat in an orderly manner, leaving the small community to the British oppressors. American losses total 83  men with 450 captured. British lose 9 men, with 4 wounded.

Conclusion:

The British has now entered the South to look for loyalist support.  Many believe that this was the biggest mistake that Cornwallis had made as a General.