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General George Washington's Offensive Operations At The Battle Of Trenton

685 Words3 Pages

On the morning of December 26, 1776, General George Washington would conduct an offensive operation against the three Hessian regiments who were wintering their forces in the town of Trenton, New Jersey. Although this engagement would not cause any significant material or troop damage to the British Army; it would have a lasting impact by being the battle that legitimized the Continental Army as being capable of facing a superiorly trained and equipped enemy whilst maintaining minimal loses. The battle’s aftermath was a result of General Washington’s ability to take advantage of key terrain and the poor quality of Hessian defenses, by utilizing the element of surprise through weather and terrain, and the Hessians inability to recognize the …show more content…

To conduct his assault he would cut off any possible Hessian routes of retreat and seize key terrain to gain a tactical advantage. He posted MG James Ewing would take a ferry with his 700 militia and assume control over the bridge to over Assunpink Creek. Washington also assault a poorly garrisoned outpost on the northwest side of Trenton. Finally, Washington gained control of the high ground overlooking the town for his gun placements to effectively target Hessian ranks. These conditions that General Washington created are what help lead to the Continental victory. Washington had effectively created a kill zone within the town of Trenton. He blocked all major routes of escape so the Hessian would be encircled. By seizing the high ground Washington was able to create the best vantage point for his guns. He could target and destroy squads of Hessians while still maintaining a high level of protection. By encircling the Hessian he forced them to fight in his conditions. By understanding the enemy situation Washington was able to prepare the battlefield so that it supported his operations. Washington saw the threat forces lack of preparation and used it to his advantage when he moved to take the Hessians only defensible points. For these reasons, Washington’s success in seizing key terrain and staging his forces to an advantageous position are to be considered as a major effecting factor that lead to an American

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