Thirteen Colonies > Middle Colonies > Province of New Jersey

Province of New Jersey

Background

The Province of New Jersey played a crucial role in the American Revolutionary War, acting as a central battleground and a strategic crossroads between New York and Pennsylvania. The state's geographical position made it a focal point for military campaigns and skirmishes. Here is an overview of New Jersey's involvement in the Revolutionary War:

Political and Social Context:

1. Diverse Loyalties:

   • New Jersey's population was divided between Patriots and Loyalists. This internal division led to significant conflict and challenges within the colony.
   • The colony's diverse population included Dutch, Swedish, Quaker, and Scottish communities, contributing to varying degrees of support for the revolutionary cause.

2. Early Revolutionary Activity:

   • New Jersey was an early supporter of the Patriot cause, with prominent figures such as William Livingston and Richard Stockton advocating for independence.
   • The colony sent delegates to the First and Second Continental Congresses, playing a role in the broader revolutionary movement.

Key Events and Battles:

1. The New York Campaign (1776):

   • Following the British capture of New York City, General George Washington's Continental Army retreated across New Jersey. This period saw several significant skirmishes and engagements as the British pursued the Americans.

2. The Battle of Trenton (December 26, 1776):

   • One of the most famous battles of the Revolutionary War, the Battle of Trenton was a surprise attack by Washington's forces on the Hessian garrison in Trenton.
   • The successful assault, carried out after Washington's daring crossing of the Delaware River on Christmas night, resulted in the capture of nearly 1,000 Hessian soldiers and boosted American morale.

3. The Battle of Princeton (January 3, 1777):

   • Following the victory at Trenton, Washington's forces engaged British troops at Princeton. The American victory at Princeton further bolstered morale and forced the British to evacuate much of New Jersey.
   • These two victories helped restore confidence in the Continental Army and demonstrated Washington's strategic acumen.

4. Winter Encampments:

   • The Continental Army spent the winter of 1777-1778 at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, but New Jersey also hosted significant winter encampments.
   • Morristown, New Jersey, served as the winter quarters for the Continental Army in 1779-1780. The harsh winter conditions and shortages faced there were comparable to those at Valley Forge.

5. The Battle of Monmouth (June 28, 1778):

   • One of the largest battles of the war, the Battle of Monmouth took place as British forces under Sir Henry Clinton retreated from Philadelphia to New York.
   • The battle ended in a tactical draw, but the American forces, led by Washington, demonstrated improved discipline and effectiveness. The battle is also famous for the legend of "Molly Pitcher," a woman who purportedly took her husband's place at a cannon.

6. Skirmishes and Guerrilla Warfare:

   • New Jersey saw numerous skirmishes and guerrilla actions throughout the war. The state's geography, with its forests and rivers, made it conducive to hit-and-run tactics employed by both sides.
   • Notable engagements include the Battle of Bound Brook (1777), the Battle of Connecticut Farms (1780), and the Battle of Springfield (1780).

British Occupation and Challenges:

1. British Occupation of Cities:

   • The British occupied several New Jersey cities at different times, using them as bases for operations and supply depots.
   • The presence of British troops led to hardship for local residents, including requisitioning of supplies and quartering of soldiers.

2. Loyalist Activity:

   • New Jersey had a significant Loyalist population, leading to internal conflicts and raids. Loyalist militia units often clashed with Patriot forces and contributed to the instability in the region.

Aftermath and Impact:

1. Strategic Significance:

   • New Jersey's central location between New York and Philadelphia made it a strategic crossroads, influencing the movement of armies and the outcome of campaigns.
   • The state's role in key battles, particularly Trenton and Princeton, had a profound impact on the course of the war.

2. Economic and Social Recovery:

   • The war caused widespread destruction and economic disruption in New Jersey. Farmlands, homes, and infrastructure suffered damage from battles and foraging armies.
   • Post-war recovery involved rebuilding and restoring the economy, with agriculture remaining a vital sector.

Legacy:

1. Military Valor:

   • New Jersey's contributions to the Revolutionary War are commemorated through numerous historical sites and monuments. The state played a vital role in key military engagements and demonstrated significant resilience and bravery.
   • The New Jersey militia and Continental Army regiments from the state were instrumental in many battles and skirmishes.

2. Political Influence:

   • Leaders from New Jersey, such as William Livingston, served in prominent political roles during and after the war. Livingston became the first Governor of New Jersey and was a signatory of the United States Constitution.
   • New Jersey was the third state to ratify the U.S. Constitution, reflecting its active role in the formation of the new nation.

Conclusion:

The Province of New Jersey's involvement in the American Revolutionary War was marked by its strategic importance, significant battles, and the resilience of its people. The state's central location made it a key battleground, and its victories at Trenton and Princeton were crucial in sustaining the Patriot cause. New Jersey's contributions to the war effort and its enduring legacy are essential parts of American history.

Thirteen Colonies

Sources

Primary Sources

Secondary Sources

1911 Encyclopædia Britannica, Volume 19