Today in 1776, in Trenton, New Jersey,

The British suffered a major defeat in the Battle of Trenton during the Revolutionary War. 

After crossing the Delaware River into New Jersey in cold, blustery weather, General George Washington led a surprise attack on Hessian mercenaries in the streets of Trenton that caught most of the 1,200 Hessian soldiers in the city sleeping after a day of Christmas celebration.   Washington’s army numbered nearly 2,400 soldiers and was commanded by Major Generals John Sullivan and Nathanael Greene. The Hessian army led by Colonel Johann Rall, included three regiments of Hessian troops totaling around 1,400 troops with a small British unit called the 16th Dragoons.

Gen. Washington and the American Army march to Trenton

Attacking from both the north and the south side of town, tThe American army took total control of the battle. All three Hessian regiments were isolated and were not able to coordinate. American soldiers took cover in houses and from there, fired freely. During the battle, Colonel Rall was fatally wounded. The Hessian troops were completely surrounded and were forced to surrender. Hessians suffered significant losses with 22 dead, 83 wounded, and nearly 1,100 troops captured along with 6 cannons. Americans only suffered 2 dead and 5 wounded.

Hessian forces were caught completely off guard

Despite the success, Washington dropped the plan to advance further to Princeton and New Brunswick. After the battle, Washington and his troops moved back to Pennsylvania by crossing Delaware, taking back prisoners and captured supplies. This battle, despite its small scale, did wonders to the confidence level of Continental Army. They believed that they could defeat the European army, even after Hessians instilled fear in them during the battle of Long Island. It led to increased enlistment into the army.

British General Howe was surprised by the ease with which Americans won against Hessian troops. With the increased confidence of the Americans, the colonial effort was enthused and the morale advantage of British army was neutralized.

[December 26, 1776]