Cavalry officer Henry Lee III’s above summation stands as testament to George Washington’s unparalleled status in American history. A talisman and icon during the 13 colonies’ struggle for independence Washington lead the troops and minutemen to eventual victory. In peace he shone brighter still, stabilising the new republic and creating a model for future presidents and statesmen.
The broad strokes of George Washington’s story are known by many. As Dr Joanne Mancini put it: “[Washington] is from an established family but he’s not the first son...he’s in the Virginia gentry, but not the top rung”. Joining the military he rose through the ranks serving on the frontier of Britain’s colonies.
At the same time he had become a successful planter, thanks to sound investments and marriage to the wealth widow Martha Dandridge. This success brought Washington in conflict with the authorities as Britain introduced taxes from afar. As Westminster introduced further restrictive legislation Washington’s role in the opposition movement grew.
Washington played a key role in establishing the Continental Congress. When the Second Congress was called following the Battles of Lexington and Concord Washington attended in military uniform. The message was clear, war had begun and Washington would be involved.
When Congress created the Continental Army Washington was duly elected its Commander-in-chief. The following eight years would cement George Washington’s place in US history as he led the American rebels to eventual victory. Yet this path was paved more with defeat than success. How did Washington win the war with so many losses?
The secret to this success was the same that made Washington one of the greatest presidents of the United States.
Possessed of great self control and determination Washington reforged himself. From a headstrong leader driven by the dictates of honour emerged an inspiring leader tempered by reason and rational. The Continental Army was similarly reformed in Valley Forge. While thousands died in the bitter winter, what emerged in the spring of 1778 was a capable and hardened fighting force.
Washington’s leadership was pivotal at Valley Forge and beyond. Despite the harsh conditions he was able to keep order and morale high. This great leadership also allowed Washington to weather defeat. He never surrendered and was always able to retake the field.
When peace was negotiated in 1783 one of Congress’ best assets was the reputation of Washington and his Continental Army. Independence brought new challenges and the future of this new state was far from secure.
While the War of Independence ensured Washington would be remembered by history it was his statesmanship that made him the icon he is today.
When peace came Washington stood down. His popularity among the soldiers and the wider public would have made a coup easy. Instead Washington retired to his estate in Mount Vernon, a final symbolic gesture making the military subservient to civilian government.
Washington would not be allowed to retire in peace though and in 1789 he was unanimously elected as the First President of the United States. He would lead the emerging republic through the next eight formative years. His steady hand saw the United States emerge as a stable and tolerant pluralistic democracy as other revolutionary states descended into chaos and dictatorship.
After two terms Washington stood down and returned to life on his plantation. In December 1799 George Washington died. At 67 years old he was mere weeks away from the new century. His pivotal role in founding and shaping the United State would be felt throughout the 19th century and beyond.
Described by the revolutionary Simon Bolivar as “the Great Citizen, the First-Born Son of the New World” it is not an exaggeration to describe George Washington as one of the most important figures in modern history.
Join Patrick as he talks with some of the leading authorities on George Washington about the life, career, and legacy of this giant of history.
