WORLD HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -Washington hoped that a quick victory at Trenton would bolster sagging morale in his army and encourage more men to join the ranks of the Continentals come the new year. After several councils of war, General George Washington set the date for the river crossing for Christmas night 1776.

Detailed explanation-2: -Why was Washington’s attack on Trenton a surprise? It was Christmas night. The British did not expect an attack.

Detailed explanation-3: -Washington crossed the Delaware River so that his army could attack an isolated garrison of Hessian troops located at Trenton, New Jersey. The Delaware River is less than 300 yards (268m) wide at the point where Washington’s army crossed.

Detailed explanation-4: -Shortly after eight o’clock on the morning of December 26, 1776, the Continental Army started its charge on the city. Three columns marched through thick snow with Washington personally leading the middle charge. As the soldiers pushed forward, artillery began to fire.

Detailed explanation-5: -At about 11 p.m. on Christmas, Washington’s army commenced its crossing of the half-frozen river at three locations. The 2, 400 soldiers led by Washington successfully braved the icy and freezing river and reached the New Jersey side of the Delaware just before dawn.