Dave Does History on the Bill Mick Podcast
The Battle of Trenton
Tuesday, October 27, 2026

Segment One: The Revolution at the River

• Washington retreats across New Jersey as the American cause approaches collapse.
• His army is shrinking, morale is low, and enlistments are about to expire.
• Washington chooses a surprise attack on the Hessian garrison at Trenton.

Segment Two: The Impossible Crossing

• The plan calls for three American forces to cross the Delaware.
• Ice and severe weather disrupt the operation.
• Washington’s force crosses late and marches toward Trenton as daylight approaches.

Segment Three: The Hour of Surprise

• Two American columns converge on Trenton.
• Hessian troops resist, but American positioning and artillery help decide the battle.
• Colonel Rall is mortally wounded, and much of his command surrenders.
• Separating the actual battle from the familiar Christmas legends.

Segment 4: Why Trenton Mattered

• A small battle produces an enormous boost to American confidence.
• Washington demonstrates that his army can still take the initiative.
• The victory sets up the next encounters at Assunpink Creek and Princeton.