Oriskany was reputed to be the most atrocious fight of the Revolution.

Joseph Brant, the Mohawk chief, led the Indians, who were allies of the English.
In spite of this, Burgoyne seemed to lose resolution, uncertain whither to turn.

He instinctively groped for a way that would take him down the Hudson and bring him to Albany, where he was to meet British reenforcements.

But he missed his bearings and found himself near Saratoga.

Here General Gates confronted him with an army larger than his own in regulars.