The British captured Charleston, South Carolina, during the American Revolution on May 12, 1780. This was one of the most significant defeats for the Continental Army during the war.

Charleston, a key port city and one of the most important strategic locations in the southern colonies, had been heavily fortified by the Continental Army. However, after a prolonged siege by British forces under General Henry Clinton, the city and its defenders were forced to surrender. The British laid siege to Charleston for about six weeks, cutting off supplies and reinforcements, and ultimately forcing the surrender of the American forces stationed there, including around 5,000 soldiers.

The capture of Charleston was a major blow to the American cause, as it resulted in the loss of a vital port and a large number of Continental troops. The British were able to control much of the South for the next few years, and the city remained in British hands until the end of the war. However, the loss of Charleston also led to increased guerrilla warfare in the southern backcountry, which, along with other factors, contributed to the eventual British defeat in the South.