On what nights did George Washington’s army cross the Delaware River before the Battle of Trenton?

George Washington’s army crossed the Delaware River on the night of December 25–26, 1776.

The crossing was the first stage of a surprise operation against Hessian troops stationed at Trenton, New Jersey. Washington led Continental Army soldiers from Pennsylvania across the icy river during severe winter weather. The main column reached New Jersey and attacked on the morning of December 26.

The operation was organized in secrecy because Washington needed a victory after a difficult series of defeats and retreats. Other planned crossings were canceled or failed, but the principal force still achieved surprise. The Continental Army captured Hessian soldiers, weapons, and supplies at Trenton.

Washington’s army crossed the river again after the battle, returning to Pennsylvania with prisoners and military stores. It later crossed a third time during the closing days of 1776. The victory at Trenton helped revive American morale and preceded another victory at Princeton in January 1777.