What was the significance of the Battle of Trenton?

Question

The victory of the Continental troops impressed the French and led to an alliance.

Washington launched a surprise attack on Hessian soldiers and got needed supplies.

The Continental troops were able to secure access to New York.

Washington used Valley Forge as a winter base to watch over the British in Philadelphia.

Answer 1

The significance of the Battle of Trenton primarily lies in the fact that Washington launched a surprise attack on Hessian soldiers and got needed supplies. This battle, fought on December 26, 1776, was crucial as it re-energized the Continental Army and bolstered morale after a series of defeats.

The successful surprise attack resulted in a decisive victory for the Americans, capturing a significant number of Hessian troops and providing much-needed supplies and a morale boost to the Continental forces. This victory also helped to encourage enlistment and support for the Patriot cause at a time when the revolution seemed to be faltering.

While the other options point to important aspects of the larger Revolutionary War context, the immediate and significant impact of the Battle of Trenton was indeed the surprise attack and the strategic benefits that followed.