George Washington's Surprise Attack

Extensively researched and superbly argued in Tucker’s compelling narrative, this in-depth examination of George Washington’s ‘military miracle’ at the Battle of Trenton unquestionably confirms the vital importance of that stunning victory.” —Jerry D. Morelock, PhD, editor in chief at Armchair General

Like many historical events, the American Revolution is sometimes overlooked, ignored, or minimized by historians because of common shrouding in romantic myth or interference from stubborn stereotypes. Here historian Phillip Thomas Tucker provides an in-depth look at the events of the Battle of Trenton, weeding out fiction and legend and presenting new insights and analysis. Stories from many forgotten individuals of the war, including officers and soldiers from both sides, bring to life the Continental Army’s desperate circumstances and shocking victory. Myths that Tucker debunks include the Hessians’ slovenly drunkenness, Washington acting alone in creating the attack strategy, and Rall’s incompetence as a leader largely contributing to his troops’ defeat.

By exploring the forgotten aspects of one of America’s most famous battles, revealing Trenton’s story proves to be even more fascinating. In the end, America’s founding was nothing short of miraculous, and no chapter of America’s story was more miraculous than Washington’s improbable success at the battle of Trenton, where America’s fate was decided to almost everyone’s amazement on a dark, snowy morning.

Skyhorse Publishing, as well as our Arcade imprint, are proud to publish a broad range of books for readers interested in history--books about World War II, the Third Reich, Hitler and his henchmen, the JFK assassination, conspiracies, the American Civil War, the American Revolution, gladiators, Vikings, ancient Rome, medieval times, the old West, and much more. While not every title we publish becomes a New York Times bestseller or a national bestseller, we are committed to books on subjects that are sometimes overlooked and to authors whose work might not otherwise find a home.

Phillip Thomas Tucker, PhD, is a writer and historian who has edited and authored more than two dozen books and written over sixty scholarly articles. After earning his PhD in 1990, he took a position as civilian historian with the Department of Defense and specialized in air force history. He lives near Washington, DC.

“Tucker combines a detailed analysis of Trenton as a brilliantly conceived and executed military operation with a convincing argument for the battle as the defining event of the American Revolution.”
--Dennis E Showalter, PhD, Colorado College

“In George Washington’s Surprise Attack, Phillip Thomas Tucker has once again demonstrated total mastery of his chosen subject matter. Extensively researched and superbly-argued in Tucker’s compelling narrative, this in-depth examination of George Washington’s ‘military miracle’ at the Battle of Trenton unquestionably confirms the vital importance of that stunning victory.”
--Jerry D. Morelock, PhD, Editor in Chief, Armchair General Magazine

“Tucker’s account brims with colorful information . . . that vivifies this pivotal episode in American history. . . . Of most interest to military historians and Revolutionary War buffs.”—Kirkus Reviews

“Tucker’s book is less about myth-busting and more about re-creating . . . the events of that day.”— The Star-Ledger

"Tucker pulls back the shroud of legend surrounding the battle of Trenton, revealing the details of the turning point of the American Revolution. . . . Contrary to longstanding theories that Washington won because of the incompetence of Hessian leader Col. Johann Gottieb Rall, Tucker validates Rall's tenacity and deep military leadership. He also gives credit to unsung heroes in Washington's army."—Publishers Weekly

"A highly detailed and fairly balanced assessment not only of the Battle of Trenton, but also of the Hessian commander Col. Rall. Phillip Thomas Tucker, PhD, dispels many myths and legends that have been incorrectly told since the end of the American Revolution. An enjoyable and scholarly read."—Scott G. Rall, Descendant of Col. Johann G. Rall