GERMANTOWN: A Military History of the Battle for Philadelphia, October 4, 1777

2-225550

Studies the strategic, political, and tactical history of this complex operation and important set-piece October 4, 1777 battle into a single compelling account. Complete with original maps, numerous illustrations, and modern photos, and told largely through the words of those who fought there.

On October 4, obscured by darkness and a heavy morning fog, Washington launched a surprise attack on the British garrison at Germantown. His early attack found initial success and drove the British legions before him. The recapture of the colonial capital seemed within Washington's grasp until poor decisions by the American high command brought about a reversal of fortune and a clear British victory. Like Brandywine, however, the bloody fight at Germantown proved that Continental soldiers could stand toe-to-toe with British Regulars. The Battle of Germantown began a protected quasi-siege of the British garrison in Germantown prior to the travails soon to come that winter at Valley Forge.