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

2. 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.

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

7. 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