VALLEY FORGE In the winter of 1778 Washingtons

VALLEY FORGE • In the winter of 1778, Washington’s troops endured a horrific winter at Valley Forge (about 20 mi outside of Philly) while waiting for French aid. • Lack of food, lack of supplies (shoes, coats), the spread of small pox, freezing temperatures, and fighting amongst soldiers were only a few issues that Washington had to confront. • The greatest challenge became keeping the cont. army together.

THE MARQUIS DE LAFAYETTE • Lafayette was a French aristocrat and military officer who fought for the US in the AR. He also later fought in the French Revolution. • He stayed with Washington and his troops at Valley Forge, where became a confidant to Washington and served as the connection between the French and Continental armies. • He was crucial to securing French support during the war and assuring the

FRIEDRICH VON STEUBEN • Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben was a Prussian-born military officer who assisted Washington in managing and training the troops at Valley Forge. • He demanded order, discipline, comradery, and cleanliness from the Continental soldiers. • His war strategies, methods, and tactics were used in American warfare through the War of 1812, but have influenced many parts of contemporary warfare. • He was Washington’s Chief of Staff in the