George Washington's crossing of the Delaware River

George Washington’s crossing of the Delaware River is a historical event that occurred on the night of December 25 to 26, 1776, during the American War of Independence.

By December 1776, the morale of the American troops was at its lowest. A series of defeats and territorial losses had led to a decline in confidence and hope for victory. Washington understood that the army needed a victory—otherwise, the war could be lost.

On Christmas night, under the cover of darkness and snow, George Washington led more than 2,400 soldiers across the frozen Delaware River (a technically difficult and dangerous operation) from Pennsylvania to New Jersey. Despite severe weather conditions, they managed to cross and launch a surprise attack on Hessian troops of the British army in the town of Trenton on the morning of December 26.

The Americans achieved a decisive victory with minimal losses, capturing around 1,000 enemy soldiers, numerous muskets, gunpowder, and several cannons. This victory greatly boosted American morale and strengthened George Washington’s authority as a leader.

P.S. Image attribution: Emanuel Leutze, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons