Why did Washington's army attack.....?

Question

Why did Washington's army attack the British in the Battle of Trenton?

When did the Battle end?

Answer 1

While you can find all sorts of glorified analyses of the action, it was really the last ditch attempt of a beaten army. The American troop's enlistments were expiring, and Washington's force was dwindling. Severe winter weather was closing in, and Washington was undersupplied. If the battle wasn't fought just then, the army would have unraveled and the revolution would have been over.

I've never seen it written, but I believe that Washington's inspiration was the battle of Culloden Moor in the Scottish rebellion of 1745. In that battle, Prince Charles attempted a night attack against the British. The occasion was the Duke of Cumberland's birthday, when the British troops could be expected to be inebriated. Unfortunately, the attackers lost faith before reaching the British lines, and retired in disarray to Culloden Moor. The British awoke to discover how close they had been to being slaughtered in their sleep, and pursued. In the battle, the Scots were wiped out. Knowledge of the '45 must have been with Washington and his men as they treked through the snow. Because they knew what would happen if they failed, they couldn't fail.

Answer 2

They knew the Hessian force there, about 1000 strong, would not be expecting an attack, enjoying the Christmas holiday instead. Knowing that he had to have a victory after a string of defeats, Washington attacked the Hessians after a night crossing of the Delaware River and a march of several miles to reach the town. The Hessians were completely surprised and after token resistance, surrendered to Washington. This was a tremendous morale boost for the weakened Continental Army. A signifigant event.

Answer 3

to kill the king's army

Answer 4

To get to the other side.