Battle Of Trenton Essay

“We have it in our power to begin the world over again” -Thomas Paine, Common Sense. Consider the country we live in today. Now consider how we got here. How did an army of considerably less soldiers defeat the biggest powerhouse in the world at that time, Great Britain? Due to the genius plan of American hero, George Washington, and his strategy at Trenton, the patriots were able to sway things in their favor, and eventually win America’s independence. Keeping in mind the state of the American army before Trenton, Washington’s seemingly outrageous plan, and the impeccable success of the battle itself, the battle of Trenton is undoubtedly the most crucial patriot victory in the Revolutionary War. Before Trenton, the outlook for the Patriots

In Washington’s commentary on the Battle of Trenton he discusses on of the biggest roadblocks: the overwhelming amount of ice in the water. As previously mentioned, Washington hoped to have all his soldiers across by 12 am, however they didn’t meet that goal at all. In actuality, “it was three o'clock before the artillery could all be got over; and near four before the troops took up their line of march” (Report on the Battles of Trenton and Princeton), and become ready to start the long haul towards Trenton. Due to the delays in getting across the Delaware River, it became morning time before the attack had even truly began. It was nearing 8 am when the battle finally broke out, completely catching the Hessians off-guard. Groggy, hung-over Hessians soon began to fight back but the American soldiers swiftly took them down, or captured them prisoner. It wasn’t long before the Hessians laid down their swords and surrendered to the Patriots. It’s important to remember “The fighting lasted only an hour and a half” (McDonough), because to think that Washington and his army could pull this amazing success off in only 90 minutes it truly outstanding. Also, the fact that “[The Patriot] loss is very trifling indeed, only two officers and one or two privates wounded” (Report on the Battles of Trenton and Princeton) is absolutely amazing that our army was able to have so much success and take down an entire Hessian army, and only suffering two casualties. This battle helped us progress our winning of the Revolution immensely for multiple reasons. Compared to how the soldiers were all exhausted and in a dreary state of hopelessness, after Trenton, it gave the Americans hope that we actually had a real shot at coming out of this war victorious. Without the success at Trenton, perhaps we wouldn’t have won the Revolutionary War and still be under British rule