On December 23, 1776 Thomas Paine wrote "these are the times that try men's souls." George Washington's army was disintegrating after a series of defeats around New York City. With morale low and enlistments expiring, Washington knew he had to have a success to keep his army. When spies reported lax security at Trenton, he saw his opportunity. During the snowy night of 25-26 December, Washington moved his men across the river.
Battle of Trenton, (26 December 1776)
