Why did George Washington make the risky move on crossing the Delaware river on Christmas night 1776?

Answer 1

Washington took his forces across the Delaware River into New Jersey so that he could surprise the Hessian forces at Trenton, New Jersey on December 26, 1776. After returning to Pennsylvania, he crossed the same river one week later to attack British reinforcements at the Battle of Princeton.

Answer 2

He had to do it. At that point he was a looser against the British. The Americans morale was very low after the battle of Long Island and 90% of the army left to go back home. He took 2400 men to fight 3 regiments of Hessian troops of 1400 and a small British unit called 16th Dragoons. He planned the attack to revive the dying confidence of his troops and most of the enlistments of the troops were ending by the years end. He had planned his attack for Christmas night, but bad weather made it difficult to cross the river. The army split into two with one group going to the north and the other to the south. This forced the Hessian men to retreat to higher ground north of Trenton. The Americans were able to control the battle and all 3 Hessian regiments were isolated and they suffered 22 dead, 83 wounded, and 1100 captured. The Americans only had 2 dead and 5 wounded. This battle did wonders for the Americans confidence levels and they began to believe they could defeat the British.

Answer 3

Washington was going to surprise attack on solders in Trenton,New Jersey.To do that he would have to cross the frozen Delaware River.this was a dangerous trip for him and his men to make

Answer 4

To get to the other side!

Answer 5

To gain the advantage of surprise.