Lecture Notes: American Revolution Winter 1776

Context and Situation

• Timeframe: Winter of 1776, six months post the American colonies declaring independence.
• American Army: Decimated and overrun, especially in Manhattan by Hessians (German mercenaries).
• Conditions: The Continental Army was cold, tired, sick, and facing a powerful British Empire.
• British Pursuit: British forces pushed toward the Delaware River, a natural boundary between New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Key Characters and Dialogue

• General Washington: Central to the narrative; determined to cross the Delaware River.
• Hamilton: Advises against risking lives for a single cannon; emphasis on moving to safety.
• Glover: Tasked with acquiring boats to cross the river.
• Robert McKenzie: Reluctantly loses his boats to the Continental Army.

Strategic Planning

• Crossing the Delaware: Vital to the Continental Army's survival; essential to create a boundary from British forces.
• Supply Shortages:
  • Lacking food, medicine, blankets.
  • High rates of illness within the troops.
• Desperation: Congress's support is waning; enlistments ending soon.

Tactical Movements

• Splitting Forces: Washington divided forces among key generals (Lee, Gates), hoping dispersed forces would survive.
• Crossing and Attack Plan: Target was the village of Trenton, held by 1,200 Hessians who had vital supplies.

Challenge of the Hessians

• Perception: Hessians seen as superior soldiers, intimidating to American troops.
• Plan to Attack on Christmas: Exploit Hessians' expected relaxation and inebriation during the holiday.

Internal Conflicts

• General Gates: Strong objections to Washington’s plan; skeptical of success given current troop conditions.
• Washington's Resolve: Despite Gates' objections, Washington stood firm in his plans.

Execution of the Plan

• Crossing the Delaware:
  • Logistical challenge given weather and icy river conditions.
  • Colonel Glover's role crucial in ferrying troops across.
• Attack at Trenton:
  • Surprise attack early morning; reliance on close combat due to potential weapon failure in wet conditions.
  • Successful capture of Trenton and Hessian supplies and prisoners.

Aftermath and Reflection

• Victory Significance: This was the first victory in 12 months, boosting morale.
• Washington's Leadership: Despite exhaustion, Washington emphasized the continuation of the struggle.
• Acknowledgement of Troops: Praise and gratitude for the troops' bravery and trust.
• Strategic Withdrawal: Immediate return across the Delaware to secure position before British reinforcements.