Washington's problems 1777-1781

Question 1

3 points

Where did Washington decide to spend the Winter following the loss of Philadelphia, 1777-1778, and why?

Answer 1

• Valley Forge - this was 18 miles Northwest from the city.
• This allowed him to protect Pensylvania from Howe.
• It was also on high terrain making it easier to defend.

Question 2

3 points

What problems did Washington face at Valley Forge?

Answer 2

• An estimated 1700-2000 soldiers died from disease and malnutrition.
• Congress failed to supply the army with sufficient supplies, food and clothing.
• There was the threat of soldiers deserting.

Question 3

4 points

How did Washington use the time at Valley Forge effectively?

Answer 3

• He used the time to improve the effectiveness of his army.
• The army was split into five divisions and unit strength and terms of service were standardised, improving morale and efficiency.
• Under Baron von Steuben, the army practiced drill and battle tactics. The training was standardised, further improving efficiency.
• Washington organised the inocculation of his soldiers against smallpox. This was known as the first large scale state organised innoculation campaign in history.

Question 4

5 points

What problems did Washington face in 1778-1781?

Answer 4

• Whilst the British had withdrawed from Philadelphia to New York, Charles Lee (Washington’s second in command)’s attack on them whilst retreating had done little damage.
• Washington did not have the strength to attack New York, but the British also lacked the strength to face the patriots, so over 1779-1780 the war appeared deadlocked in the north.
• Washington’s forces struggled from a lack of troops due to desertion and a refusal to re-enlist. In the winter of 1779-1780, the army was reduced to 8000 men, a third of which were unfit to fight.
• In 1780 the patriot cause was rocked by the defection of Benedict Anrold, who joined the British after plotting to hand over the fortress of West Point. This would have been a blow to morale.
• Washington’s army sufferd from a series of mutinies caused by poor food and clothing as well as concerns over payment in 1781. He was able to restore order by promising to adress the concerns and hanging a few ring leaders.