The Decisive Battles of World History

of Trenton and Princeton. These came at the very darkest moment

for the Revolution, at a time when support for it was faltering and

everything seemed to be turning against the young republic.

x Instead, by a series of clever and daring maneuvers, Washington

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established his reputation as a general, and saved the nascent

revolutionary movement. From that moment on, the continuance

of the Revolution was never again seriously in doubt, leading

inexorably toward the colonists’ attainment of freedom from

Great Britain.

Bonk, Trenton and Princeton 1776–77.

Dwyer, The Day Is Ours!

Fischer, Washington’s Crossing.

1. What were Washington’s positive qualities as a commander, and which
   of them do you think was most important?


2. If Washington had lost the Battle of Trenton, do you think that the United
   States would eventually have achieved independence from Britain?

Suggested Reading

Questions to Consider