General John Burgoyne surrendered his entire army of nearly 6,000 men to American forces, the turning point that persuaded France to enter the war.

France's Foreign Minister informed American commissioners in Paris that King Louis XVI would recognize the United States, a turning point after Saratoga.

The Continental Congress designates a national day of thanksgiving to celebrate the American victory at Saratoga, the first such proclamation by the united colonies.

George Washington's Continental Army began establishing winter quarters at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, facing brutal cold and severe shortages.