The Spirit (Crisis) of '76 Challenges faced by George Washington The Continental Army was undisciplined and unorganized. The Continental Congress was undisciplined and unorganized. The Continental Congress had unrealistic expectations as British evacuate Boston. The British Army was highly disciplined and organized (and out of reach in Halifax). New British Offensive (HOWE ya doin'?) It was clear that the British evacuation of Boston was a tactical retreat. By early summer, the British were prepared to reassert their power in New York City. Why NYC? (access to the sea/central location/loyalists abound) July 2nd - British led by Gen. William Howe and Adm. Richard Howe. Immediately open communication with 2nd CC to negotiate peace. By early August, British amassed the largest naval and land forces in it's history on Staten Island. Battles of Long Island and Brooklyn Heights Washington forced by Congress to defend an indefensible position. By march, GW was in NYC and started work on two forts on either side of the Hudson river (FT. Washington and Ft. Lee). When The Howes arrived, GW was busy making defenses - He rejected the peace overtures presented by Howe. By August, it was clear that British looking at wide open pastures of Brooklyn for an offensive operation. Aug. 22-Aug.29 - from British landing to GW escape across the East River. GW retreats After escaping Brooklyn, GW retreats to defensive positions in Harlem Heights. Surrounded by loyalists and Tories. Quickly realizes that keeping Army intact more important than defending territory. Sept.-Oct. Washington chased North by Howe, Cornwallis and Clinton. GW slept here...and here... over there... November - Washington doubles back to New Jersey. Ft. Washington and Ft. Lee are lost to British. GW flees through NJ with Cornwallis in pursuit On the banks of defeat... December 8th, GW abandons NJ and crosses into PA. Newport RI taken/2nd CC evacuates to Baltimore/Cornwallis occupies Princeton 3,000 New Jerseyans sign a loyalty oath to British. The Crisis Thomas Paine was traveling with the Continental Army - trying to be a soldier, but better as a writer. Wrote the first (of 16) brief essays that dramatized the trials of the Continental Army. Meant to inspire soldiers whose enlistments were set to expire on Jan. 1st. Trenton (Dec. 25, 1776) Washington is in desperate need for a victory. Targets Col. Johann Rall and 1,400 hessian stationed in Trenton. Surprise attack for many reasons. An American rout and forces Cornwallis out of Princeton to fight. Considered a turning point for it's impact on war effort.