What major impact did the Battle of Yorktown have on the American Revolutionary War?

The Battle of Yorktown, fought in 1781, was a decisive victory for the American forces that fundamentally shifted the course of the American Revolutionary War. This battle marked the last major engagement of the war, where British General Cornwallis surrendered to the combined American and French forces. The significant defeat at Yorktown weakened the British resolve to continue fighting against the growing United States, leading to negotiations for peace.

The outcome of the battle directly influenced the signing of the Treaty of Paris in 1783, which officially ended the war and recognized American independence. The treaty not only confirmed the sovereignty of the United States but also established important territorial boundaries. Thus, the Battle of Yorktown is most accurately linked to the conclusion of the American Revolutionary War and the subsequent treaty, making this option the most impactful statement about the battle's consequences.