The significant battle that marked the turning point in the American Revolutionary War was the Battle of Yorktown in 1781. British General Cornwallis surrendered to American forces, led by General George Washington, with support from French troops. This decisive defeat effectively ended major military operations and strengthened the American cause for independence. The victory at Yorktown garnered international attention and support for the revolutionaries, particularly from France, which provided crucial military and financial assistance. Following this battle, negotiations for peace began, culminating in the Treaty of Paris in 1783, which recognized American independence.