Washington Crossing: A Pivotal Moment in American History

The night of December 25-26, 1776, was a defining moment in the American Revolution. General George Washington and his Continental Army crossed the icy Delaware River and launched a surprise attack on Hessian mercenaries in Trenton, New Jersey. The victory at Trenton was a major turning point in the war, giving the Americans a much-needed boost of morale and convincing foreign powers that the American cause was worth supporting.

Washington's Crossing (Pivotal Moments in American History)

by David Hackett Fischer

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	15091 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Lending	:	Enabled
Print length	:	576 pages

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Background

By the winter of 1776, the American Revolution was at a low point. The Continental Army had been defeated in several major battles, and morale was low. Washington's army was encamped in Pennsylvania, across the Delaware River from Trenton. The Hessians, who were hired by the British to fight in the war, were stationed in Trenton.

Washington decided to cross the Delaware River and attack the Hessians on Christmas night. He knew that the Hessians would be celebrating the holiday and would be less likely to expect an attack. The plan was risky, but Washington believed that it was their only chance to turn the tide of the war.

The Crossing

On Christmas night, Washington and his men boarded boats and crossed the Delaware River. The crossing was difficult, and several boats were swamped. However, Washington and his men eventually made it to the other side.

They then marched to Trenton and attacked the Hessians. The Hessians were surprised by the attack and were quickly overwhelmed. Washington's army captured over 900 Hessians and several cannons.

Aftermath

The victory at Trenton was a major turning point in the American Revolution. It gave the Americans a much-needed boost of morale and convinced foreign powers that the American cause was worth supporting. The victory also helped to convince the British that they could not easily defeat the Americans.

Washington's crossing of the Delaware River is one of the most famous events in American history. It is a story of courage, determination, and sacrifice. It is a story that reminds us that anything is possible if we are willing to fight for it.

Washington Crossing: A Pivotal Moment in American History is a book that tells the story of this important event. The book is written by historian David Hackett Fischer, and it is based on extensive research. Fischer provides a detailed account of the crossing, from the planning stages to the aftermath. The book is also illustrated with numerous maps and photographs.

Washington Crossing is a fascinating and informative book that will appeal to anyone interested in American history. It is a story that is both inspiring and instructive. It is a story that reminds us that anything is possible if we are willing to fight for it.

To learn more about Washington Crossing, I highly recommend reading David Hackett Fischer's book. It is a well-written and informative book that will give you a greater appreciation for this important event in American history.

Washington's Crossing (Pivotal Moments in American History)

by David Hackett Fischer

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	15091 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Lending	:	Enabled
Print length	:	576 pages

FREE