Battle of Trenton

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Battle-of-Trenton

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Battle_of_Trenton.Dean.USMA.edu.history

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== Battle of Trenton ==

The Battle of Trenton was a pivotal engagement during the American Revolutionary War. It took place on the morning of December 26, 1776, after General George Washington's crossing of the Delaware River north of Trenton, New Jersey. The battle significantly boosted the Continental Army's morale and reinvigorated the revolutionary cause.

Background

In the winter of 1776, the Continental Army had suffered a series of defeats and was in retreat across New Jersey. The British forces, under the command of General William Howe, had established a series of outposts across New Jersey, including a garrison of Hessian soldiers in Trenton. Washington planned a surprise attack on the Hessian forces to revive the American cause.

Crossing the Delaware

On the night of December 25-26, 1776, Washington led a daring and risky crossing of the ice-choked Delaware River. Despite harsh weather conditions, the Continental Army successfully crossed the river and marched towards Trenton. This maneuver is famously depicted in the painting Washington Crossing the Delaware.

The Battle

The Continental Army attacked the Hessian garrison at Trenton early in the morning. The Hessians, under the command of Colonel Johann Rall, were caught off guard and unprepared for the assault. After a brief but intense battle, the American forces captured nearly 1,000 Hessian soldiers and seized valuable supplies and munitions.

Aftermath

The victory at Trenton had a profound impact on the American war effort. It boosted the morale of the Continental Army and encouraged reenlistments and new recruits. The success at Trenton was followed by another victory at the Battle of Princeton on January 3, 1777, further solidifying Washington's leadership and the resolve of the American forces.

Legacy

The Battle of Trenton is remembered as a turning point in the American Revolutionary War. It demonstrated the resilience and determination of the Continental Army and is celebrated as a symbol of American perseverance and ingenuity.

Related Pages

• American Revolutionary War
• George Washington
• Delaware River
• Battle of Princeton
• Hessian (soldiers)
• William Howe