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The Continental Army was established on November 10, 1775 by the Continental Congress as a unified fighting force for the American colonies in their struggle against Great Britain. George Washington was appointed as its commander. The Army was initially led by individuals who had served in the British Marine or colonial militias, bringing with them a strong British military tradition. However, as the Revolutionary War progressed, the Army was influenced by French aid, resources, and military strategies. Some European soldiers, such as Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben, also came to assist the American cause, teaching the Army Prussian tactics and organizational skills.

During the war, the Continental Army engaged in numerous battles, using various strategies to weaken the British forces. In the southern campaign of 1780-81, the Army employed the Fabian strategy and hit-and-run tactics, targeting the enemy where they were weakest to wear them down. Despite facing defeats in battles around New York City in 1776 and Philadelphia in 1777, Washington also led the Army to significant victories at Trenton and Princeton against the British.