1778
A momentous step toward American victory occurred in Paris when French and American diplomats finalized the preliminary terms of the Treaty of Alliance and the Treaty of Amity and Commerce. These treaties formally recognized the United States as an independent nation. France pledged crucial military support, including troops, naval forces, and financial aid, which ultimately proved essential in winning the war.
1780
During the severe winter of 1779–1780 at Morristown, New Jersey, the Continental Army was at its most vulnerable. By January 30, the army was suffering intensely from lack of food and adequate clothing. Soldiers were eating tree bark and their own shoes to survive after a series of massive blizzards blocked all supply routes. Records indicate that a significant number of soldiers died from starvation, disease, and exposure around this time. The death toll during this winter ultimately exceeded the number of casualties at major battles like the Battle of Princeton.