George Washington

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George Washington
George Washington was the First President of the United States (1789-97) and commander in chief of the Continental army (1775-83) at a most critical period in American history. He was one of the most influential revolutionary leaders of his time and earned the title “Father of His Country”. While commander in chief of the Continental army, he won many important battles that helped the Americans defeat the British, then the most powerful nation in the world.
Washington made the American Revolution successful not only by his personal military triumphs but also by his skill in directing other operations. With both military background and training, Washington had learned how to challenge men to give their best. He created the Continental Army out of what was little more than an armed mob, which fought and won the American Revolution.
With victory won, Washington was the most highly looked upon man in the United States. Many people wanted Washington to use this power to establish a military dictatorship or to become king. Washington did not pursue this idea because he realized dictatorship would be the downfall of the future independent nation. He was the leading influence of the union of the states under a strong central government and later the Constitution of the United States.
After a new government was organized, Washington was unanimously chosen the first President and took office in1783. Washington’s role as president was important in winning the support for the new government’s domestic and foreign policies. He is responsible for building much of the country’s political and economic structure. Washington fully understood the significance of his presidency. Probably no other man could have succeeded of turning the states into a lasting union.
Around 1792, Washington was thinking about retirement. Both Hamilton and Jefferson advised him that if he were to retire the North and South mig...