Editing Valley Forge (section)

== Strategic Context ==

The Continental Army's retreat to Valley Forge followed a disastrous autumn campaign. In September 1777, British forces under General William Howe defeated Washington at the [[Battle of Brandywine]] and captured Philadelphia, forcing the Continental Congress to flee. Washington's attempt to recapture the city was repulsed at [[Battle of Germantown|Germantown]] in October. With the approach of winter ending the campaign season, Washington needed a position close enough to Philadelphia to monitor British movements and protect the Pennsylvania countryside, yet distant enough to avoid surprise attack. Valley Forge, situated on defensible high ground with the Schuylkill River protecting one flank, met these requirements.<ref name="lengel">{{cite book |last=Lengel |first=Edward G. |title=General George Washington: A Military Life |year=2005 |publisher=Random House |location=New York}}</ref>

The army that marched into Valley Forge numbered approximately 12,000 soldiers, though the effective strength was considerably lower due to men unfit for duty. The troops were exhausted, many lacking adequate clothing, shoes, or blankets. The army's supply system had collapsed under the strains of the campaign, and the arrival of winter would make procurement even more difficult. Washington chose Valley Forge knowing his men would suffer, but believing the position essential to maintaining pressure on the British and protecting the surrounding countryside from foraging parties. The decision reflected the harsh calculus of revolutionary war: the army had to survive the winter to continue the fight for independence.<ref name="bodle"/>