15. Fort Niagara (New York)
Fort Niagara commands a dramatic position at the mouth of the Niagara River, overseeing the vital gateway to the Great Lakes. Built initially by the French, then passing to British and later American hands, its multinational history reflects the shifting tides of colonial power. The fort played key roles in the French and Indian War, the American Revolution, and the War of 1812. Despite its rich past, Fort Niagara is often overshadowed by flashier battlefields, yet its enduring presence marks it as a cornerstone of northern defense.
