George Washington
1732–1799
American general, commander-in-chief of the colonial armies in the American Revolution and subsequently the first President of the United States, George Washington became known as the father of his country.
Born into a wealthy family of Virginia planters, Washington worked as a surveyor and gained military experience in the French and Indian War. The impending American Revolution would call him to his country's aid.
Washington was named commander-in-chief of the military force of all the colonies in 1775. Over the next five years, including the nadir of the harsh winter at Valley Forge, Washington held the American forces together by sheer strength of character. His capture of Cornwallis at Yorktown in 1781 marked the end of the war.
Alone commanding the respect of both parties, Washington was chosen unanimously to preside over the Constitutional Convention. He was elected the country's first President in 1789 and re-elected four years later.
Timeless Wisdom from George Washington
"Labor to keep alive in your breast that little spark of celestial fire, called conscience."
"Happiness and moral duty are in separably connected."
"It is better to offer no excuse than a bad one."
"Liberty, when it begins to take root, is a plant of rapid growth."
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