There is But One Option for the Winter: Valley Forge

Why did the Continental Army encamp its main force at Valley Forge during the winter of 1777-1778? What was the impact of its presence in that physical location?

 

These questions bear scrutiny and discussion as they are often overlooked or underexamined in traditional narratives regarding the encampment. More often than not, the focus has been on what transpired during the winter and the hardships faced by the army.

 

While those topics are undoubtedly of great value, examination of the questions posed will reveal a complex set of social, political, economic, and strategic factors dictating that Valley Forge would be the only viable option for the army’s encampment at that time.

 

Join historian Kenneth A. Gavin as he demonstrates the impact of this geographic choice was of great value to the patriot cause from strategic military and foreign policy perspectives.