The Biography of the First President of the United States: George Washington

George Washington was the first President of the United States, serving from 1789 to 1797. He was a military leader, statesman, and Founding Father who played a key role in the American Revolution and the establishment of the United States. Washington is considered one of the most influential figures in American history, and his legacy continues to shape the country today.

George Washington: Life and Death: The biography of the first President of the United States (Roseman Biographies Book 2)

by George Roseman

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Language	:	English
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Early Life and Education

George Washington was born on February 22, 1732, in Westmoreland County, Virginia. His father, Augustine Washington, was a wealthy planter and land speculator. His mother, Mary Ball Washington, was a devout Christian who instilled in her son a strong sense of morality and duty. Washington had two older brothers, Lawrence and Augustine Jr., and a younger sister, Betty.

Washington received a basic education at home from private tutors. He was a bright and inquisitive child, and he enjoyed reading and writing. He also excelled at physical activities, such as riding, swimming, and hunting. In 1748, Washington traveled to Barbados with his brother Lawrence, who was suffering from tuberculosis. While in Barbados, Washington contracted smallpox, which left him with permanent scars on his face.

Military Career

In 1752, Washington was appointed as a surveyor for the Ohio Company, a land speculation company that was trying to acquire land in the Ohio Valley. This appointment gave Washington his first taste of military life, as he was responsible for surveying the land and defending the company's interests from Native American attacks. In 1753, Washington was appointed as a lieutenant colonel in the Virginia militia. He served in this role during the French and Indian War, which lasted from 1754 to 1763. Washington distinguished himself as a brave and skilled military leader, and he was promoted to the rank of colonel in 1755.

In 1758, Washington led a successful expedition against Fort Duquesne, which was a major French stronghold in the Ohio Valley. This victory helped to turn the tide of the war in favor of the British, and it made Washington a national hero. In 1759, Washington resigned from the military and returned to his plantation, Mount Vernon.

Political Career

After the French and Indian War, Washington became increasingly involved in politics. He served as a delegate to the First Continental Congress in 1774, and he was a member of the Second Continental Congress in 1775. In 1775, Washington was appointed as the Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army. He led the American forces to victory in the American Revolution, and he is considered one of the greatest military commanders in history.

After the war, Washington returned to Mount Vernon. However, he was soon called back to public service. In 1787, he presided over the Constitutional Convention, which drafted the United States Constitution. In 1789, Washington was elected as the first President of the United States. He served two terms in office, and he is considered one of the most successful presidents in American history. Washington established many of the traditions and institutions of the American government, and he set a high standard for future presidents.

Retirement and Death

In 1797, Washington retired from public life and returned to Mount Vernon. He spent his remaining years farming and managing his estate. He died on December 14, 1799, at the age of 67. Washington is buried at Mount Vernon, and his tomb is a popular tourist destination.

Legacy

George Washington is considered one of the most influential figures in American history. His leadership during the American Revolution and his presidency laid the foundation for the United States of America. Washington is also remembered for his integrity, his patriotism, and his devotion to duty. He is a role model for all Americans, and his legacy continues to inspire people around the world.

Additional Resources

• Mount Vernon
• George Washington
• George Washington

George Washington: Life and Death: The biography of the first President of the United States (Roseman Biographies Book 2)

by George Roseman

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	210 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	44 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE