Valley Forge Winter of 1777-1778

Discover the resilience of the Continental Army during the brutal Valley Forge winter of 1777-1778. Learn about Washington, Lafayette, and the struggle for independence.

Watch the digital clip below. What do you notice or wonder? Look at the following two portraits of Valley Forge then answer the questions that follow. List three observations that you can make from the paintings above. Based on the images, what can you infer about the conditions experienced by Washington's army at Valley Forge? After viewing the images, list two questions that you have about the Continental Army's time spent at Valley Forge. American Revolution Click on the link embedded here (D) to read a passage about Valley Forge. Use the passage to answer the questions that follow. In what state is Valley Forge located? Maryland New York Massachusetts Pennsylvania Which of the following is NOT a reason that George Washington chose to camp at Valley Forge? There was a river that served as a barrier to the north It was far enough away from the British army in Philadelphia that he would have warning if they attacked It was a warm, comfortable spot to spend the winter months Mount Joy and Mount Misery offered high ground for his troops Who did the Continental Army fight at Valley Forge? The English The French There was no battle at Valley Forge The German Hessians What was the main cause of death to American soldiers at Valley Forge? Gunshot wounds Starvation Poison Disease Around how many soldiers died over the winter while camping at Valley Forge? 100 500 1000 2500 Fill in the blanks for information about Marquis de Lafayette. Marquis de Lafayette was a French officer who came to help the Americans fight the revolution against Great Britain. When he learned of the struggle of the Americans in their endeavor to secure independence, he resolved to come to the colonies to aid them in their efforts. He was given the rank of Major General since he represented the highest rank of French nobility. He became a close adviser and friend to George Washington. His influence helped to secure support from France for the Patriot's cause. Lafayette was also able to obtain troops and supplies from France. During the Battle of Yorktown, he led forces against the General Cornwallis. He was the first foreigner to be granted honorary United States citizenship. Today, he is remember as a hero in France and the United States, earning the nickname "The Hero of Two Worlds." When he died on May 20, 1834 at the age of 76, the United States government sent American soil from Bunker Hill to be spread on top of his grave site.