Final answer:
In 1777, George Washington ordered the Continental Army to be inoculated against smallpox to prevent the disease from debilitating the forces fighting for American independence.
Step-by-step explanation:
George Washington ordered the Continental Army to be inoculated against smallpox in 1777. Despite the limited medical knowledge of the time, Washington recognized the danger smallpox posed to his troops and, after witnessing how inoculation provided immunity to the disease, made the critical decision to protect his army through this measure. This act was instrumental in preventing the spread of the disease among the troops, allowing them to maintain their strength and focus on the fight for independence.