How did Washington turn the tide of war in late 1776 and early 1777?

How did Washington turn the tide of war in late 1776 and early 1777?

What will be an ideal response?

ANSWER
The ideal answer should include:
1. Washington’s narrow escape from Long Island in August 1776 was the first of numerous retreats.
2. By late 1776, the Americans were on the verge of total defeat.
3. In December 1776, Washington decided to take a desperate gamble and attack Trenton.
4. After an initial success, Washington’s troops were pinned down by British forces under Charles Cornwallis.
5. The Americans, however, were able to slip away and inflicted another defeat on the British at Princeton.