With these memorable events past, days of boredom returned to the Highlands and the war in America turned south in 1780 for its final campaigns. In 1781, Washington and his army, joined by a French army and supported by the French fleet, marched to Yorktown and the final military victory. As Americans waited for peace, he returned to the West Point area in 1782, encamping the army at New Windsor, near Newburgh.

Back in the Highlands, Washington and the army faced new but equally important challenges. In 1783, Washington thwarted what has come to be known as the "Newburgh Conspiracy" in which some of his disgruntled officers proposed to disband the Army or take violent action forcing Congress to act favorably on their pay grievances, life pensions, and claims for food and clothing. In a poignant address to his officers, in which he apologized for having given his eyesight in the service of his country, Washington shamed the conspirators and held the loyalty of the officer corps. By his inspiring performance, Washington possibly saved the young nation and the Army from the possibility of a military dictatorship.

More History of West Point

Introduction
1775: Constitution Island
1776: Twin Forts of the Popolopen
1777: Defeat in the Highlands
1778: Fortifications of West Point
1779: Stony Point
1780: Treason
1781-83: Yorktown to Peace
1802: US Military Academy