James Baquet

War in 18th century Europe was supposed to be gentlemanly, but the American revolutionaries could not afford such niceties. This army, which at any moment never numbered more than 20,000 — up to 40,000 with the informal militiamen thrown in — was facing an empire that had in the previous century beaten such opponents as France and Spain. The Americans adapted their technique to the place, often fighting running battles through forests rather than standing face to face in neat lines on an open battlefield.

It was against this backdrop that George Washington, leader of the Continental Army, undertook on the night of Dec. 25 — Christmas — in 1776, a mission that by the rules of etiquette was questionable to say the least. (You would expect that two armies of Christian men would avoid maneuvers on holidays, let alone at night.)

The British were in New York for the bitter winter season, leaving hired Hessian mercenaries to hold Trenton, New Jersey. Washington’s force, chased across the Delaware River into Pennsylvania, was weakening: Some soldiers had come to the end of their contracted service; others were sick; and many had deserted.

But the troops’ morale was bolstered by the Dec. 19 publication of a pamphlet by Thomas Paine, which read in part: “These are the times that try men’s souls; the summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of his country; but he that stands it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman.” Washington ordered all of his troops to read it and, when reinforcements and much-needed supplies arrived, they were ready to push on.

This is when Washington made a move — some would say underhanded — which has been enshrined in songs, paintings, and films. He moved men, horses, and artillery back across the icy waters of the Delaware during the night of Dec. 25-26, and launched a surprise attack in the morning. The Americans lost only three dead and six wounded, but killed 22 Hessians and wounded 98. About a thousand were taken prisoner, along with weaponry.

This victory rallied the troops, the people, and the Congress, and solidified Washington’s role as leader.

Vocabulary:

Which word above means:

1. strengthened, supported

2. soldiers for hire

3. preserved, cherished

4. spirits, confidence

5. fine points, details

6. military movements

7. shy away (from)

8. dishonorable

9. large mounted guns

10. adjusted; modified to fit