Final answer:
General George Washington's strategic planning and leadership, along with the element of surprise, led to the Patriots' victory in the Battle of Trenton.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Patriots won the Battle of Trenton because of General George Washington's strategic planning and leadership. General Washington made the bold decision to cross the icy Delaware River and surprise the Hessian forces stationed in Trenton. The bad weather and the element of surprise caught the Hessians off guard and they were unable to effectively defend themselves. Washington's troops engaged in house-to-house fighting and captured the Hessian forces, along with much-needed supplies and weaponry.