well needed after the harsh winter spent training at Valley Forge. This was solid evidence that all the hard work had paid off. They could win this war. I believe that without a tactical victory such as this, the subsequent victories in the South, which resulted in American independence, would have been impossible.As for General Lee, he was court-martialed, at his own request, I might add. In a very ironic twist, it seems as if the British found Lee’s retreat a marvel of modern tactics. In a letter written by Lt. Hale of the British Infantry, he says of Lee’s tactics “…acquainted with the temper of our present Commander, [he] laid a snare…[and] Clinton swallowed it whole. ” I must say that the arrogance of this man is amazing. After the battle, on the same day, no less, he wrote to General Washington demanding as apology for the harsh language taken with him on the field. He says “…From the knowledge I have of your [Excellency’s] character, that nothing but the misinformation of some very stupid…or wicked character could have occasioned your making use of such a singular expression…” In this same letter he tells Washington that his maneuvers won the battle, and he should be commended . He asks Washington to grant a court-martial for him to clear his name. In a reply, Washington simply tells him that his wish to clear his name has been granted, and he is being court-martialed. He was found guilty of “Misbehavior in front of the enemy, making an unnecessary, disorderly, and shameful retreat, and with disrespect for the Commander-in-Chief. ” He was sentenced to a one year suspension, and his eventually firing from the service. I think Washington finally won the battle over the man that had tried time and again to take his position.A huge portion of the great morale boost received after this battle heavily involves the British march through New Jersey. The ...
