Question

The Continental Army enjoyed its first victory over the British on Christmas night in 1776 when the Americans:

A. Launched a surprise attack on British troops in Trenton, New Jersey
B. Negotiated a peace treaty with the British
C. Secured foreign military aid from France
D. Successfully defended a major city against a British siege

Answer 1

The Continental Army's first significant victory against the British occurred during the Battle of Trenton on December 26, 1776, when Washington led a surprise attack against Hessian forces, capturing over 900 soldiers.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Continental Army's First Victory

The Continental Army enjoyed its first significant victory over the British on Christmas night in 1776 during the Battle of Trenton. This turning point came when General George Washington led his troops in a surprise attack against Hessian forces, who were German mercenaries allied with the British, in Trenton, New Jersey. The attack resulted in a critical American victory, capturing over 900 Hessian soldiers and offering a much-needed boost to revolutionary morale after previous setbacks.

Washington's decision to move against the Hessians went against conventional 18th-century military tactics, which typically involved fighting only in the summer months. The Continental Army's strategic victory on December 26, 1776, was a bold move, demonstrating Washington's willingness to adapt and utilize the element of surprise, even during the winter season. This victory was followed by another momentous triumph at the Battle of Princeton, which further established the momentum for the American cause.