The Battles of Trenton and Princeton Washington’s Cunning The Battles of Trenton and Princeton

The Situation – A Low Point Winter of 1776 – 1777 Continental Army dwindles Soldiers went home or deserted Washington wrote his brother If new soldiers were not recruited soon, “I think the game is pretty near up.” Washington could not believe that the fight for liberty would truly fail.

The Continental Army Needs Soldiers African-Americans join the fight Estimated 5,000 African-American joined the Patriots Enslaved Africans who had run away Fought to earn their freedom By wars end, all colonies except South Carolina had enlisted African Americans

The British Blow It General Howe took his troops to New York for the Winter He left New Jersey in the hands of the Hessians Howe’s delay allowed Washington to gather reinforcements Thomas Paine said, “These are the times that try men’s souls.” He urged Patriots to remain loyal to their cause

The Battle of Trenton – Attack Them In Their Underwear Washington plans a surprise attack on the Hessians December 25, 1776 (Christmas Morning around 8 a.m.) Washington and his men cross the Delaware River into Trenton 2,500 Men Lasted less than 1 hour Patriots captured more than 900 Hessians Only 5 American Casualties The victory boosted American Spirits

Battle of Princeton – Washington Needs Another Win Washington was not satisfied Patriots march toward Princeton January 2, 1777 Patriots keep campfires burning Left camp under the cover of night The encircled the British Troops Princeton was another victory for the Patriots “It is a fine fox chase, my boys!” George Washington