Washington's Forces Defeat Cornwallis at Assunpink
January 2nd, 1777
January 2nd, 1777

How Long Ago?
248 years, 2 months, 13 days ago
Location
Trenton, New Jersey, United States
Category
Military & Warfare
War/Conflict
American Revolutionary War
People
- George Washington
- Charles Cornwallis
Links & References
Tags
Washington's Forces Defeat Cornwallis at Assunpink
In January 1777, American forces under General George Washington engaged British troops led by General Charles Cornwallis near Assunpink Creek. Washington's strategy involved a retreat across the creek, luring Cornwallis and then counterattacking. This maneuver successfully repelled the British advance, bolstering American morale after recent military challenges. The confrontation solidified Washington's tactical reputation and provided a crucial moment in the ongoing Revolutionary War.
Washington executed a strategic retreat tactic.
Cornwallis underestimated Washington's counterattack.
The battle improved morale for American forces.
This engagement heightened Washington's military reputation.
What Happened?
Near Trenton, New Jersey, American forces commanded by General George Washington faced a significant challenge from British troops under General Charles Cornwallis. As the winter of 1776-1777 wore on, American morale was flagging following a series of setbacks. After the victory at the Battle of Trenton just days prior, Washington sought to defend against Cornwallis’s attacks, anticipating a British push to recapture the town. On January 2, Washington's forces strategically withdrew to a position along Assunpink Creek, using the terrain to their advantage. As Cornwallis pressed forward, believing he had the Americans cornered, Washington executed a daring counteroffensive. This decisive moment demonstrated Washington's ability to adapt under pressure and quick thinking in exploiting the enemy's overconfidence.
The fierce engagement at Assunpink Creek saw a skilled defensive operation by Washington’s troops. The resulting American vigor kept the British contingent at bay, illustrating the resolve of the Continental Army under Washington’s command. This battle highlighted the significance of morale and strategic retreat in warfare, allowing American troops to regroup and gain strength. Washington’s forces, spurred on by the prospect of keeping Trenton, replied vigorously, successfully repulsing Cornwallis’s troops and securing a vital position through skilled leadership.
Why Does it Matter?
The engagement at Assunpink Creek served as a pivotal moment for American forces. It reinforced George Washington’s reputation as a resilient and strategic military leader. The American victory inspired confidence among the troops and supporters of the Revolutionary cause. The successful defense against superior British forces bolstered recruitment and support for the Continental Army, solidifying its capability to challenge British dominance in North America.
Discover More Historic Events from January 2nd
Runway Collision at Tokyo's Haneda Airport
Two aircraft collided on a runway at Haneda Airport in Tokyo, resulting in five fatalities and injuring eighteen others. The crash involved a domestic flight preparing for takeoff and a taxiing international flight. Emergency services responded swiftly, with firefighters and medical teams deployed to the scene to aid the victims. The investigation revealed communication breakdowns and procedural failures as contributing factors, raising significant concerns about air traffic control protocols at one of the world's busiest airports.
Continue ReadingNationwide Protests Erupt Over Gas Price Hikes
A sudden increase in liquefied petroleum gas prices triggered massive protests across Kazakhstan, leading to significant unrest. The discontent began in the western regions and quickly spread nationwide. Protesters demanded lower prices and broader political reforms, leading to clashes with law enforcement. By January 11, reports indicated at least 238 fatalities and thousands more injured amid the escalating demonstrations. The situation prompted a state of emergency as the government struggled to respond effectively to the unrest.
Continue ReadingStardust Collects Samples from Comet Wild 2
Stardust successfully flew past Comet Wild 2, collecting particles from its coma and dust trail. The spacecraft, launched in 1999, aimed to gather and return samples to Earth for detailed analysis. This flyby marked a significant milestone in understanding comets and the origins of our solar system. Stardust's journey included a close approach to the comet, during which it utilized advanced technology to capture microscopic particles that would reveal crucial information about comet composition and the early solar system.
Continue ReadingSharon Pratt Dixon becomes D.C. Mayor
Sharon Pratt Dixon made history by being inaugurated as the first African American woman mayor of a major U.S. city, taking office in Washington D.C. Her election to the mayorship was a significant milestone in the representation of women and minorities in politics, highlighting the changing landscape of leadership in urban America. Dixon's administration focused on urban renewal, crime reduction, and economic development, reflecting the needs of the diverse D.C. population during her term.
Continue ReadingCondor Flugdienst Flight 3782 Crash Overview
Condor Flugdienst Flight 3782, a charter flight, crashed near Seferihisar, Turkey, resulting in the loss of 16 lives. The aircraft was on a return flight from Antalya to Frankfurt when it encountered severe weather. The conditions led to the pilot's inability to maintain control, resulting in a crash shortly after takeoff. Investigations revealed that the aircraft attempted to return to the airport due to turbulent weather but ultimately succumbed to the challenges.
Continue ReadingArrest of Serial Killer Peter Sutcliffe
Peter Sutcliffe, infamously known as the Yorkshire Ripper, was arrested by police in Sheffield, South Yorkshire. His capture concluded one of the most extensive investigations by a British police force, which sought to apprehend the perpetrator responsible for a series of brutal murders of women across Northern England. This arrest marked a significant breakthrough in a case that had terrified communities and strained police resources for several years.
Continue Reading