December 19 in American History

December 19, 1777 — Washington's army enters Valley Forge

The Continental Army marched into winter quarters at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, for the darkest stretch of the Revolution. Cold, hungry, and poorly clothed, some 2,000 men died that winter — but the army that emerged in spring, drilled and hardened, was finally a match for the British. Endurance became victory.

Visit the SiteSee Valley Forge National Historical Park on the Freedom map

Common Questions

What happened on December 19 in American history?

In 1777: Washington's army enters Valley Forge. The Continental Army marched into winter quarters at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, for the darkest stretch of the Revolution.

Why is December 19 significant?

The Continental Army marched into winter quarters at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, for the darkest stretch of the Revolution. Cold, hungry, and poorly clothed, some 2,000 men died that winter — but the army that emerged in spring, drilled and hardened, was finally a match for the British. Endurance became victory.

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