Use the excerpt to answer the question.

In an effort to rally the nation in the midst of war, and attract popular support for itself, Congress addressed the inhabitants of the United States, reminding them of the cruelties they had suffered at the hands of the British, and warning them that more such treatment would result from a reunion with Britain. Because people regularly gathered at places of worship, Congress distributed the address to "churches and chapels and other places of religious worship" with the request that ministers read it aloud to their congregation immediately after divine service. Written by Congressman Gouverneur Morris, the address was sent throughout the states, and 50 copies were given to General Washington, to disperse throughout the army. —Library of Congress, American Memory Collection

Why did Congress feel the need to boost American morale by releasing this address in early 1778?

(1 point)
Responses

American army had given up and began to side with the British.
American army had given up and began to side with the British.

Americans were beginning to lose hope of winning their independence.
Americans were beginning to lose hope of winning their independence.

Congress hoped people would donate much needed supplies.
Congress hoped people would donate much needed supplies.

Congress used the address as a way to trick the British.

Americans were beginning to lose hope of winning their independence.

Congress felt the need to boost American morale by releasing this address in early 1778 because Americans were beginning to lose hope of winning their independence.

To answer this question, we need to analyze the given excerpt. In the excerpt, it is mentioned that Congress released the address "in an effort to rally the nation in the midst of war." This suggests that Congress felt the need to boost American morale during a difficult time. Additionally, the address reminded the inhabitants of the cruelties they had suffered at the hands of the British and warned them of potential future mistreatment if they were to reunite with Britain. This indicates that Americans were beginning to lose hope of winning their independence, making it more important for Congress to boost morale and maintain public support. Therefore, the correct answer is: Americans were beginning to lose hope of winning their independence.