Question

how did the timing of general washingtons attack on trenton help ensure a colonial victory?
he attacked in the winter, when armies usually did not fight.
he chose a day when the british army was marching on a nearby town.
he attacked when french officials were supplying the continental army.
he chose a day when the british would not be expecting to fight.

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option:

• Option 1: While winter fighting was less common, the key to the Trenton attack's success was surprise, not just the winter season. The Hessian troops (allied with the British) were caught off - guard mainly because of the timing of the attack in terms of their expectations, not just the winter.
• Option 2: There is no historical evidence that the British army was marching on a nearby town during the Trenton attack. The attack was on Trenton where Hessian troops were stationed.
• Option 3: French support to the Continental Army was more of a long - term supply and alliance, and it was not the case that French officials were supplying the army during the Trenton attack.
• Option 4: General Washington attacked on Christmas night (and the early morning of December 26, 1776). The Hessian troops (who were part of the British - allied forces) were celebrating Christmas and not expecting an attack. This element of surprise, choosing a day when the enemy was not expecting to fight, was crucial for the colonial victory at Trenton.

Answer:

A. He attacked in the winter, when armies usually did not fight. (Incorrect)
B. He chose a day when the British army was marching on a nearby town. (Incorrect)
C. He attacked when French officials were supplying the Continental army. (Incorrect)
D. He chose a day when the British would not be expecting to fight. (Correct)