December 26, 1777, Trenton, New Jersey. George Washington led a group of troops consisting of English, Scotch-Irish from Pennsylvania and Virginia, African Americans, both free and enslaved, a small group of Native Americans, and some Dutch and French. All totaled about 2,400 men who crossed the Delaware in a surprise attack on a Hessian (German) encampment of about 1,500.
This attack, which became known as the Battle of Trenton, was a small but pivotal turning point in the war for independence and proved that colonial troops could win against professional European troops.
Washington could not have won this battle without the support of so many ethnically diverse soldiers who believed they could be free from British rule.
As we end 2025 and look forward to 2026 and the national celebration of the semiquincentennial of the United States, the Diveristy Corner will bring you examples of those of various ethnic backgrounds who have contributed to the rich historical fabric of the United States.
For more local information on the American Revolution and American 250, check out this page from the Cambria Memory Project.