John Sullivan led a campaign in 1779 through Pennsylvania and New York with the goal of eliminating Iroquois forces. His army of 4,500 men from several states marched through difficult terrain and faced supply issues. They attacked and destroyed several Iroquois villages, including Newtown and Genesee, in line with Washington's orders to inflict total destruction. The expedition was a success in weakening Iroquois forces and securing the frontier, but came at the cost of Sullivan's health, leading to his resignation.