George Washington

3 Pages 801 Words

George Washington is best known as the “Father of our Country.” He cared for this
country much like a parent would care for a child. During his presidency, he solved
many noteworthy problems. His achievements led to a democratic, wonderful
country we like to call The United States of America. Although he’s not thought of
as glamorous, George Washington is looked upon with the utmost respect and awe
by all countries of the world. George Washington was born in Westmoreland
County, Virginia on February 22, 1732. He was the oldest son of a Virginia farmer.
Washington received most of his education at home. When he was 17 he was
appointed surveyor of Culpeper County, Virginia. In 1752 Washington inherited
Mount Vernon, in Fairfax County. The same year he was appointed adjutant of the
southern district of Virginia, a full-time salaried appointment, carrying the rank of
major. He wanted to eventually secure a commission in the regular British army. In
1753, Virginia was alarmed when a French expedition from Canada established
posts on the headwaters of the Ohio River. Conflict over this area eventually
erupted into the French and Indian War, in which Washington played a major
military role that established his reputation as a commander. In the fall of 1758 the
French were defeated. In 1759 he married Martha Dandridge Custis, a wealthy
young widow. Washington matured into a solid member of Virginia society. From
1759 to 1774 he served in the House of Burgesses. By 1774 Washington had
become a key supporter of the colonial cause. That same year he was elected to the
First Continental Congress. In 1775 the Second Continental Congress elected
Washington commander in chief of its army. In July Washington arrived in
Massachusetts, where the battles at Lexington and Concord had been fought. The
British pulled back most of their troops to winter in New York City, leaving
scattered garrisons of German mercenaries in New Je...