The Hilly McHillface of History: Bunker Hill or That Other One?
Ah, yes. Bunker Hill. The name practically screams "American Revolution!" But hold on to your tricorn hats, history buffs, because there's a little wrinkle in this redcoat. See, the Battle of Bunker Hill wasn't actually fought on Bunker Hill!
Wait, What?
Yep, you read that right. The American colonists, bless their revolutionary hearts, got a tad bit turned around. Their original plan was to fortify the mighty Bunker Hill, a strategic high ground overlooking Boston Harbor. But in the cloak-and-dagger darkness (and maybe a lack of decent eighteenth-century GPS), they ended up setting up shop on its slightly shorter neighbor, Breed's Hill.
So, They Battled on the Wrong Hill?
Well, not exactly a wrong hill, per se. Breed's Hill offered a pretty sweet view of the city too. The British, naturally, weren't thrilled with the colonists getting all comfy on their doorstep, so a good old-fashioned brawl ensued. The Battle of Bunker Hill, as it came to be known (thanks to a case of mistaken identity), was a bloody mess, but a turning point in the war. The inexperienced colonists, despite technically losing the battle, showed they could hold their own against the mighty British army.
Fun Fact: The whole "Bunker Hill vs. Breed's Hill" mix-up has become a bit of a historical punchline. It's kind of like that time you showed up to the wrong party, only instead of awkward small talk, there were muskets and cannons.
How To Spot the Difference Between Bunker Hill and Breed's Hill (from a Safe Distance, Obviously)
Okay, so you probably won't be needing to navigate a revolutionary battlefield anytime soon. But if you ever find yourself in Charlestown, Massachusetts, here's a quick tip:
- Bunker Hill - The taller of the two, all chilled and overlooking the Mystic River.
- Breed's Hill - The shorter one, closer to Boston and where the actual battle took place. There's even a nifty monument commemorating the, ahem, "Battle of Bunker Hill."
## Bunker Hill or Breed's Hill FAQ
How to impress your friends with your revolutionary war knowledge?
Drop that little nugget about the Bunker Hill/Breed's Hill switcheroo. Bonus points for reenacting the battle with strategically placed couch cushions.
How to avoid an awkward historical snafu?
Just remember, the colonists got a little turned around. The battle was on Breed's Hill, but everyone calls it Bunker Hill anyway.
How to tell the difference between the two hills?
Bunker Hill - taller, chills by the Mystic River. Breed's Hill - shorter, closer to Boston, and the site of the "Bunker Hill" battle.
How to reenact the Battle of Bunker Hill without property damage?
See above re: couch cushions. Safety first, people!
How to learn more about the American Revolution?
Hit the history books, my friend! Or, you know, there's always this nifty website you're currently reading...
