What was the overall British plan to defeat the Americans in 1777?

The overall British plan to defeat the Americans in 1777 was to use a three-pronged attack on Albany, which was intended to split the colonies along the Hudson River. This strategy was designed to isolate New England from the southern colonies, making it easier for the British to control the territory and resources. By capturing Albany, the British hoped to secure vital supply lines and manipulate the movement of American forces.

This plan involved the coordinated movement of British troops from different directions, specifically from Canada, New York City, and Lake Ontario. The British believed that if these forces converged on Albany, they could significantly weaken the American resistance by disrupting their communication and supply routes, ultimately leading to a quicker resolution of the conflict in favor of Britain.

While other strategies mentioned, such as occupying major cities or burning farms and seaports, were tactics used during the war, they did not reflect the overarching strategy of splitting the colonies to undermine their unity and effectiveness as one fighting force. The focus on a coordinated attack to control Albany underscores the British approach to warfare in America during that period.