USA HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -After failing to retake Philadelphia, Washington led his 12, 000-man army into winter quarters at Valley Forge, located approximately 18 miles (29 km) northwest of Philadelphia. They remained there for six months, from December 19, 1777 to June 19, 1778.

Detailed explanation-2: -Washington and his weary troops occupied Valley Forge, located in eastern Pennsylvania along the banks of the Schuykill River some 20 miles northwest of Philadelphia, six days before Christmas in 1777.

Detailed explanation-3: -While wintering in the camp, soldiers worked together to build huts for shelter, but unsanitary conditions, and shortages of food and blankets contributed to the disease and exhaustion which continually plagued the camp.

Detailed explanation-4: -The particularly severe winter of 1777-1778 proved to be a great trial for the American army, and of the 11, 000 soldiers stationed at Valley Forge, hundreds died from disease. However, the suffering troops were held together by loyalty to the Patriot cause and to General Washington, who stayed with his men.

Detailed explanation-5: -Washington ordered his soldiers to build wooden huts for themselves, twelve by twelve feet each, and then search the countryside for straw to use as bedding. He hoped this would keep them warm since there were not enough blankets for everyone.