Crossing the Delaware – Part 1

By Andrew, FPP Intern

“Discipline is the soul of an army. It makes small numbers formidable, procures success to the weak, and esteem to all.” – George Washington

On December 25, 1776, General George Washington led his troops in one of the most daring military moves the world has seen. Late at night, Washington and his troops crossed the icy Delaware River. One of the biggest dangers was the floating sheets of ice in the river. There were other dangers as well, and Colonel John Haslet actually fell into the water during the crossing. Washington and his troops made it across the river, but had to wait until 3am (December 26) for the artillery to finish crossing. This was one of three crossings, and both of the other ones failed leaving Washington with less than half of his original force to work with.

At 4am Washington’s army began the march toward Trenton, New Jersey where 1,400 Hessian mercenaries were stationed. The subsequent battle was a smashing success as the Americans took the town and nearly 1,000 prisoners with only four of their own killed. This unexpected move by Washington provided the boost of moral needed for the patriots to keep fighting. Without this brilliant surprise attack, the Americans may very well have lost the Revolutionary War.