David Hackett Fischer’s Washington's Crossing is an epic and detailed chronicle of General George Washington’s daring 1776 Christmas crossing of the Delaware River and his subsequent march across New Jersey. Using both primary and secondary sources, Fischer offers an in-depth look at Washington’s decision-making and his influence over the war’s outcome.
The narrative of Washington’s Crossing begins with a brief overview of several British campaigns that sought to capture American cities in 1776. Fischer then goes on to explain how Washington’s plans for a strategic maneuver were blocked by the British, which ultimately led to Washington’s crossing of the Delaware River on Christmas night. Washington’s bold move enabled him to surprise and conquer the Hessians at Trenton and Princeton, which changed the tide of the American Revolution.
Fischer’s comprehensive research of Washington’s tactics and his mastery of narrative storytelling provide a vivid picture of Washington’s boldness and leadership. He draws extensively on Washington’s letters and documents which detail the challenges he faced and decisions he made during this critical time in American history. Fischer also makes sure to note the many dangers of the crossing and its potential to end in utter disaster.
Washington’s Crossing highlights Washington’s strategic brilliance and leadership. Fischer shows Washington’s knack for diplomacy and his skill at unifying his troops and leading them to victory. He also provides an intriguing analysis of the role France and other nations played in aiding the American victory. Fischer also takes great care to explain the challenges that Washington and his troops faced on the march, such as frigid weather, blazing artillery fire, and the ever-present threat of British capture.
Overall, Washington’s Crossing is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the events of 1776 and the essential role Washington played in America’s eventual victory in the Revolutionary War. With extensive research and a gripping narrative, Fischer’s book provides a detailed analysis of Washington’s bold and decisive Christmas crossing of the Delaware and its momentous impact on the war’s outcome.
