<Li> Iron Works Hill </Li> <P> The Battle of Trenton was a small but pivotal battle during the American Revolutionary War which took place on the morning of December 26, 1776, in Trenton, New Jersey . After General George Washington's crossing of the Delaware River north of Trenton the previous night, Washington led the main body of the Continental Army against Hessian soldiers garrisoned at Trenton . After a brief battle, nearly the entire Hessian force was captured, with negligible losses to the Americans . The battle significantly boosted the Continental Army's flagging morale, and inspired re-enlistments . </P> <P> The Continental Army had previously suffered several defeats in New York and had been forced to retreat through New Jersey to Pennsylvania . Morale in the army was low; to end the year on a positive note, George Washington--Commander - in - Chief of the Continental Army--devised a plan to cross the Delaware River on the night of December 25--26 and surround the Hessian garrison . </P> <P> Because the river was icy and the weather severe, the crossing proved dangerous . Two detachments were unable to cross the river, leaving Washington with only 2,400 men under his command in the assault, 3,000 less than planned . The army marched 9 miles (14.5 km) south to Trenton . The Hessians had lowered their guard, thinking they were safe from the American army, and had no long - distance outposts or patrols . Washington's forces caught them off guard and, after a short but fierce resistance, most of the Hessians surrendered . Almost two thirds of the 1,500 - man garrison was captured, and only a few troops escaped across Assunpink Creek . </P>

What was the purpose for the battle of trenton
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