Valley Forge: Would I Have Reenlisted In The Continental Army?

Terrible living conditions, few necessities and surviving in freezing weather with little assistance. Sounds like how the United States government treats some homeless citizens. However these are the hardships the Colonial soldiers at Valley Forge had to endure with little chance of a successful outcome. After failed attempts by the Continental Army during the American Revolution in New York and Boston, the soldiers lead by Washington decided to establish a winter camp at Valley Forge. Unaware of the incredible struggles to come, the army set up with high hopes. Many soldiers quickly quit due to conditions at Valley Forge. Given these conditions, would I have reenlisted in the Continental Army? I would have quit the army and likely never reenlist due to terrible weather conditions and being minimally aided …show more content…
To many, leaving the Army is treason, however at times with hardships like these, safety is a greater outcome than suffering. In the painting by William Henry Powell titled Committee of Congress at Valley Forge (Document B) it is clear of extremely cold weather and improper equipment. The ground is covered in snow multiple inches high in what appears to be a large open field. In the painting the soldier three men away from Washington appears to have broken shoes exposing his bare feet to the freezing snow. Many people from the 1700's to now can agree that if they were offered those conditions or a warm house in the Winter they would almost always choose the house. The Diary of Albigence Waldo (Document C) shows a disturbing reality of any soldier attempting to endure the harsh conditions set forth for them. In this Document Connecticut surgeon Albigence Waldo documented his expressed grievances about the conditions including