Battle of Hanging Rock

(August 6, 1780) a battle at Hanging Rock in South Carolina. Hanging Rock was the British forces' primary defense of their base at Camden, and was normally strong enough to turn back American advances. Hanging Rock's defenses were weakened when forces were taken from it to defend its sister post at Rocky Mount. Thomas Sumter then planned an assault, and though the frontal attack went off course, the troops were fortunate to end up striking the vulnerable British flank. Battle ensued between the two forces, but upon the return of the British troops dispatched to Rocky Mount, the Americans retreated. Both sides suffered heavy losses, and the post was evacuated shortly after the battle due to the advance of Horatio Gates's army.

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