What led up to the battle/how did the battle of Long Island start?

Account of the Battle of Long Island:

Following the withdrawal of the British army from Boston on 17th March 1776, General George Washington, in the expectation that General Howe would attack New York, which was held for the Congress, marched much of his army south to that city from Boston.

Part of: American Revolutionary War

Military personnel involved: William Howe

Explanation:

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