George Washington's crossing of the Delaware River

George Washington's crossing of the Delaware River

Dec 25, 1776

General George Washington's commitment to cross the Delaware River on Christmas 1776. At first glance, the decision to transport 2,400 Continental soldiers across an icy river in one night, directly into a severe winter storm of sleet and snow seems irrational. Washington kept almost all of the details of the crossing a secret; as a result, none of the soldiers knew anything about their upcoming mission.