April 4th, 1776, was an important date that was planning on securing the freedom of New York.
New York had both the Hudson River and East River, along with the Atlantic Ocean which they used for transportation and trading. The British having New York to themselves was a big disadvantage to the patriots, and if they required that spot, it would make obtaining freedom have a much better chance of success.
George Washington sent a letter to Congress, stating that he was planning to march to New York but Congress would not pay them. So despite the soldiers being unpaid, George Washington and them still marched to New York.
Then seven years later on November 25th, 1783, New York was free to the Patriots.
