New York held immense strategic importance during the Revolutionary period, serving as a critical link between the Northern and Southern colonies. Its geographical position made it a vital hub for trade and military movements, allowing for control over key routes and access points across the continent.

The city was perceived as a gateway, not only to Canada and the Great Lakes but also to various Indigenous nations. This centrality made it a focal point for both colonial and British forces during the struggle for independence, highlighting its role in shaping the course of the American Revolution.