American Legends: The Life of George Washington Illustrated

George Washington, the first President of the United States, is a towering figure in American history. His leadership during the American Revolution and his subsequent presidency laid the foundation for the nation. Washington's life is a testament to the power of character, perseverance, and vision.

American Legends: The Life of George Washington (Illustrated)

by Vincent Tuckwood

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1674 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	44 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Early Life and Education

George Washington was born on February 22, 1732, at Pope's Creek Plantation in Westmoreland County, Virginia. He was the eldest of six children born to Augustine Washington, a planter, and Mary Ball Washington. Washington's father died when he was 11 years old, and he inherited the family plantation, Mount Vernon.

Washington received a limited formal education but was an avid reader and self-educated. He studied mathematics, surveying, and military science. In his early twenties, Washington worked as a surveyor for Lord Fairfax, a wealthy landowner in the Shenandoah Valley.

Military Career

Washington's military career began in 1753 when he was appointed a lieutenant colonel in the Virginia militia. He fought in the French and Indian War (1754-1763),where he gained experience and recognition as a military leader.

In 1775, when the American Revolution broke out, Washington was appointed commander-in-chief of the Continental Army. He led the Continental Army to victory in the Revolutionary War, defeating the British and securing American independence.

Presidency

After the war, Washington was elected unanimously as the first President of the United States in 1789. He served two terms as president, from 1789 to 1797.

During his presidency, Washington established many of the traditions and institutions of the American government. He appointed the first Supreme Court justices, signed the Bill of Rights into law, and issued the Farewell Address, which warned against the dangers of political parties and foreign entanglements.

Retirement and Legacy

Washington retired to Mount Vernon after his second term as president. He enjoyed his retirement, spending time with his family and managing his plantation. Washington died at Mount Vernon on December 14, 1799, at the age of 67.

George Washington is remembered as one of the greatest figures in American history. He was a man of character, courage, and vision. His leadership during the American Revolution and his subsequent presidency laid the foundation for the United States of America.

Further Reading

• Chernow, Ron. Washington: A Life (2010).
• Ellis, Joseph J. His Excellency: George Washington (2004).
• Flexner, James Thomas. The George Washington (1968).
• Higginbotham, Don. George Washington: Unbuttoned (2020).
• Randall, Willard Sterne. George Washington: A Startling Portrait (1997).

Image Credits

• Figure 1: Oil Portrait of George Washington by Gilbert Stuart, Mount Vernon Digital Library, Mount Vernon, Virginia.
• Figure 2: Washington Crossing the Delaware by Emanuel Leutze, Library of Congress, Washington, D.C.
• Figure 3: George Washington at the Constitutional Convention by John Trumbull, White House Historical Association, Washington, D.C.
• Figure 4: Mount Vernon by Benjamin Henry Latrobe, Library of Congress, Washington, D.C.

American Legends: The Life of George Washington (Illustrated)

by Vincent Tuckwood

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1674 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	44 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE