Question

At the Battle of Bunker Hill, why did William Howe order his men to make a frontal assault in broad daylight?

Answer 1

It is likely that General Howe had little respect for the American militia and expected them to break and retreat.

Explanation:

One of the causes of the Revolutionary War was the disrespect showed to the American troops in the French and Indian Wars.
George Washington who had served as a officer with the American troops fighting along side the British regular troops, was denied a commission with the British after the war.

The disrespect of the British toward the American troops created a great deal of bitterness after the French and Indian Wars. The Americans had something to prove in the battle of Bunker Hill ( actually Breeds Hills)

General Howe had no respect for the American troops. He expected that the American troops would panic at the sight of professional British soldiers advancing on them. General Howe greatly underestimated the courage and fighting qualities of the militia. The British ended up winning the battle. The cost of the victory was such that General Howe said the British could not afford another such victory.