George Washington

The indispensable man, father of the nation, and greatest man of the age

Founding Father George Washington was the indispensable man during the founding era. 

Born on February 22, 1732 in Westmoreland County, Virginia, Washington was the leading personality of the American Revolution. A Virginian plantation owner and large landholder, he had become a military leader during the French and Indian War, one well-known for his bravery. In one fierce engagement early in his military career, two horses had been shot from under him, yet he still led his troops when his commanding officer was slain.

A towering figure, he was truly larger than life. In May 1775, the Second Continental Congress elected Washington as the Commander in Chief of the Continental Army. A man of tremendous character and fortitude, through almost sheer willpower, Washington led the American Army and faltering nation through a grueling and successful war against the mightiest empire on earth.

Although he attempted to retire to his estate at Mount Vernon, he was called back to service as the President of the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia in 1789.  Washington’s invaluable presence lent the Convention tremendous legitimacy.  After the Constitution was ratified, he served two terms as the first President of the United States.

When he had announced he would be voluntarily relinquishing power by retiring as President, King George III stated that Washington was “placed in a light the most distinguished of any man living,” and was “the greatest character of the age.” No wonder, then, that in the wake of his death that the House of Representatives passed a resolution authored by Henry Lee that summarized America’s thoughts on Washington: “first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen.”

For more about our Founding Fathers and their importance to our liberties today, buy a copy of America’s Survival Guide.

Picture:  Gilbert Stuart

 

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