1. Battle of Trenton

2. Facts Date: 25th December 1776
Place: Trenton, New Jersey on the Delaware River
Combatants: Americans against Hessians and British troops
Generals: General George Washington against Colonel Rahl.

3. Questions Who were the Hessians? Where did this battle happen at?
Why was this battle important?

4. Battle Plan
Washington’s plan was to cross the Delaware at three points
They would cross the river above Trenton and attack the Hessian garrison in the town.
Hessian: German soldiers loyal to King George III

5. Questions
If the Hessians worked for the British, what term could we use for those kind of forces?
If Washington’s forces attempted to come toward the Hessians when they weren’t expecting them, how could we define that kind of attack?
Was it successful?

6. Washington had some 2,400 men.
Started to cross the Delaware at 11pm,did
not reach the east bank
until around 3am.
Soldiers were badly
clothed and many did
not have shoes

7. Questions
What would have happened if the British and Hessians were ready for the Colonial Army trying to cross the river?
Would Washington have been in trouble?
Why do you think that the Colonists were so poorly dressed and equipped?

8. Battle
On the night before the attack Rahl was at dinner when he was brought information that the Americans were approaching. He ignored the message which was found in his pocket after his death. 
Surprise Attack
lasted only 90 minutes
The Americans occupied the houses and shot down the German gunners and foot soldiers
Rahl’s troops retreated to an orchard in the South East of the town where they surrendered.

9. Questions
Why do you think Rahl ignored the warning of Washington’s attack?
Why was it important that the Americans occupied the houses, and attacked the Hessians from them?
How important was this victory?
Why was it important?

10. Outcome
Americans: suffered 4 wounded casualties. It is said that in addition 2 American soldiers froze to death.
Hessians: 20 killed and around 100 wounded.
1,000 were captured.
proved American
forces could defeat regulars
increased the re-enlistments

11. Questions What does “re-enlistment” mean?
How would this have affected the negotiations between the Colonists and the French?
Would this have brought more people into the Continental Army?