Existing comment:
George Washington
Soldier, planter, politician
b 22 February 1732 / d 14 December 1799
"I have been called upon by the unanimous voice of the Colonies to take the command of the Continental Army."
-- George Washington, June 19, 1775
Washington's greatest contribution to American independence was his understanding that the army's success depended on avoiding decisive battles with the British and maintaining the support of Congress. Throughout the war he faced chronic shortages of men, weapons, and supplies, but he maintained the army's loyalty not only to him but also to the new nation. |