1776
In a moment of immense political tension, reports reached the colonies regarding the British Parliament's implementation of the Prohibitory Act. This act essentially declared “economic war” by authorizing the seizure of American ships, treating them as enemy vessels. On this day, colonial leaders like John Adams noted that this British escalation effectively “threw the colonies out of the King's protection,” making a formal declaration of independence almost inevitable.
Recognizing the growing threat in the Carolinas and Georgia, the Continental Congress took steps to strengthen the Southern Department. This reorganization led to the appointment of higher-ranking officers to oversee the defense of the South, an area that would eventually become the war's primary theater.
1777
Following the initial clash on the 7th, skirmishing persisted near Piscataway and New Market. American forces under General William Maxwell used the “hit and run” tactics that defined the Forage War, preventing British foraging parties from reaching the fertile farms of central Jersey.
From his headquarters in Morristown, Washington issued orders on this date emphasizing the need for strict discipline among the NJ militia. He was concerned that unauthorized plundering by American soldiers would turn the local population back toward the British.
1779
Tensions remained high along the front lines near Staten Island. On February 8, Governor William Livingston received intelligence regarding British preparations for another cross-water raid into Essex County, leading to a call for increased vigilance by the Elizabeth-Town militia.
1781
Continuing the high-speed retreat across North Carolina, General Nathanael Greene moved his main force toward Guilford Courthouse on February 8. His ability to keep his army intact while frustrating Lord Cornwallis is considered one of the greatest strategic masterpieces of the war, as it lured the British deeper into hostile territory away from their supply lines.