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British general who commanded the Philadelphia Campaign of 1777, defeating Washington at Brandywine and capturing both Wilmington and Philadelphia. His approach via the Chesapeake rather than overland succeeded in taking the capital but failed to destroy the Continental Army.

Commander who chose to defend Philadelphia by fighting at Brandywine Creek. Intelligence failures about northern fords left the American right exposed. His army survived the defeat intact enough to fight at Germantown three weeks later and reach Valley Forge.

British general who led the decisive flanking column at Brandywine — crossing the creek at unmarked northern fords to strike the American right. His attack collapsed the American right wing and turned the battle into a British victory. He later surrendered at Yorktown in 1781.

French nobleman wounded in the leg at Brandywine on September 11, 1777 — his first battle — while rallying retreating troops. Treated in the Wilmington area before recovering to fight at Monmouth. His dedication to the American cause helped secure French alliance support.

Wilmington surveyor and businessman, one of Delaware's five delegates to the 1787 Constitutional Convention. The only Wilmington-based delegate, Broom signed the Constitution and later served in various local civic roles, helping establish Wilmington's early infrastructure.

New Hampshire general whose forces bore the brunt of Cornwallis's flanking attack at Brandywine and collapsed under pressure. Blamed for the defeat but continued to serve through 1779, leading the Sullivan-Clinton campaign against Iroquois territory.

Rhode Island general who executed a disciplined retreat at Brandywine that prevented the British from destroying Washington's army. Moving four miles in forty-five minutes to cover the collapsing American right was one of the most impressive tactical performances of the war.

Pennsylvania Continental officer who commanded the front-line defense at Chadd's Ford during Brandywine. Later led the Pennsylvania Line at Valley Forge and the successful assault on Stony Point (1779). Known as "Mad Anthony" for his aggressive style.