Few people realize that George Washington (1732 - 1799) was a man
who formally attended school only to the elementary level. Yet, he
went on to become Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army in
1775, and served in this capacity until 1783. Washington first
gained prominence leading troops from Virginia in support of the
British Empire during the French and Indian War (1754-1763), a
conflict which he inadvertently helped to start. After leading the
American victory in the Revolutionary War, he relinquished his
military power and returned to civilian life. This act alone
brought him much renown. There was initially a question as to how
the new leader was to be properly addressed. The Senate proposed
that he be called "King" or as "His Highness the President of the
United States and Protector of Their Liberties." Washington refused
to consider either of these titles. As a result, the Senate and the
House of Representatives, after much heated debate, compromised and
agreed on the use of the much less pompous "President of the United
States." After his second term expired, Washington again retired to
civilian life. He thereby established an important precedent of
peaceful change of government that was to serve as an example for
the United States and for future Republics throughout the world.
Because of his central role in the founding of the United States,
Washington is often called the "Father of the Country." Scholars
rank him among the greatest of United States presidents. A British
Leader's Comment Yes, this is the man who was so highly honored by
the great British statesman and four times Prime Minister, William
Gladstone. Gladstone once proposed the creation of a grouping of
pedestals for statues of history's greatest men. The pedestal in
the center was noticeably higher that the others. Gladstone was
asked to identify the figure to be given the place of honor on the
highest pedestal. Without a moment's hesitation, he answered:
"George Washington." President of the Constitutional Convention
George Washington presided over the Constitutional Convention,
during which time the Constitution was approved and adopted at the
State house in Philadelphia on September 17, 1787. Only he, a
moral, honorable and dignified man -- through personal example,
committed leadership and force of character -- could hold the
strong-willed, opinion-differing men together at the glorious
Constitutional Convention. The destiny of a great nation lay upon
the shoulders of this heroic leader. Hall of Heroes Inducted by
Life Magazine in 1998 into its Hall of Heroes, these words most
appropriately written by historian Garry Wills: "Washington is the
greatest President, greatest leader, greatest politician. He
steered a course through revolution and nation-building with
immense tact and wisdom. Nobody else could have done it." Yes,
George Washington is an American hero whose eminence is not fully
covered by the record of his life. For example, the man was
substantially greater than anything he did. He was a military
genius, a mastermind. He wrenched freedom, independence and liberty
from oppression; He was an outstanding statesman. He helped evolve
a secure government from political turmoil; He was a patriot. He
refused a crown. Wisdom and understanding, persistence,
forbearance, bravery, dedication to the worthy cause animated his
every act. Thanklessness, unfairness and disloyalty never
disillusioned him, but served to reinforce and make his character
stronger. He grew in dignity and in capability to the need of his
mounting responsibility and authority. He never became pompous or
disdainful. Personal aspirations and selfish opportunity never
tempted him from the slender corridor of honor.
General
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