Which military leader's surrender marked the turning point of the Revolutionary War?

The surrender of General Cornwallis is widely considered the turning point of the Revolutionary War. This event took place at the Siege of Yorktown in October 1781, where Cornwallis, leading British forces, was surrounded by the combined American and French armies. His defeat marked the effective end of major combat operations in the colonies and significantly weakened British resolve to continue fighting the war.

The fall of Cornwallis's troops not only boosted American morale but also garnered increased support for the Revolutionary cause both domestically and from international allies. It exemplified the strategic coordination and determination of the Continental Army and its allies, leading to diplomatic negotiations that ultimately resulted in the Treaty of Paris in 1783, recognizing American independence.

This strategic loss for the British highlighted the importance of effective leadership and alliances in warfare, illustrating the shift in momentum toward the American forces and solidifying Cornwallis's surrender as a pivotal moment in the conflict.