Washington George (1732-1799)
American statesman and military leader, first President of the United States (1789-1797).

Born into a planter's family. At the age of 11 he lost his father; his older half-brother Lawrence had a significant influence on the formation of his personality. He was brought up at home, was engaged in self-education.

From 1749 he was Surveyor of Culpepper County. After the death of his brother in 1752, he inherited the estate of Mount Vernon. He was a major in the local militia, during the years of the Seven Years' War he took part in hostilities against the French troops, during which he distinguished himself and was promoted to colonel. In 1759 he married a young widow, Martha Dandridge Custis. From 1758 to 1774, Washington was elected to the Virginia legislature. He criticized the colonial policy of Great Britain, promoted the boycott of British goods.

In June 1775, he was unanimously elected commander-in-chief of the army, which he led throughout the War of Independence in North America 1775-1783 Having created an army virtually from scratch, he marched with it long way from the siege of Boston, for which he was awarded a commemorative gold medal by Congress, to the surrender of the British troops at Yorktown.

In November 1783, after the signing of the Treaty of Paris, he resigned.
Having settled in Mount Vernon, Washington remained in the focus of social and political attention. A supporter of strengthening the central government, he was elected president of the Constitutional Convention, which developed the US Constitution in 1787.

The popularity and unquestioned authority of Washington led to his election to the presidency of the country, which he took on April 30, 1789. In 1792, he was unanimously re-elected for a new term. In this post, Washington sought to implement the constitution, promoted the creation of governing bodies, and laid the foundations of the political structure of the United States. In his first government, Washington included the leaders of the opposing political groups - Republican T. Jefferson and Federalist A. Hamilton.

The programs developed by Hamilton to stabilize the financial and industrial development of the country, which diverged from the intentions of the Republicans, were adopted and began to be implemented. In dealing with the native population, Washington relied on military force, forcing the Indians to cede many territories. During protests in 1794 by farmers in western Pennsylvania protesting government tax policy (the "whiskey revolt"), the president did not hesitate to forcefully suppress this first challenge to state power in the history of the country.

In the field of foreign policy, Washington advocated non-interference by the United States in the confrontation between the European powers, issuing in 1793 the Proclamation of Neutrality. The Jay Treaty, signed in November 1794 by the President's Special Representative, removed the threat of war with Great Britain, but effectively split the country into two camps.

A kind of testament to Washington was the “Farewell Message”, published on September 19, 1796. In it, the resigning president called on fellow citizens to strengthen the union of the states, not to undermine the foundations of the constitution and the political system. Washington also bequeathed to "maintain peace and harmony with all countries", to develop trade relations with them, but to have "as few political ties as possible."

The last years of Washington's life were spent in Mount Vernon with his family and numerous visitors. The ex-president's authority was called for again during a period of sharp aggravation of relations with France in the summer of 1798, when Washington was appointed commander-in-chief of the American army with the rank of lieutenant general. On December 12, 1799, making a traditional horseback tour of his possessions, Washington was caught in a rain and snow, caught a cold and died two days later. He was buried at Mount Vernon. In honor of Washington, the capital of the country, the state, the lake and the island, the mountain and the canyon, many settlements, colleges and universities, streets and squares. In 1888, a majestic monument (over 150 m high) to the first American president was opened in the US capital.

Briefly about George Washington:

First President of the United States - George Washington- An outstanding American historical, political, statesman and military figure, the first president of the United States of America, one of the so-called Founding Fathers of the United States, the hero of the American War of Independence, the founder of the American presidency.

George Washington was born February 22, 1732, in Bridges Creek, Virginia, the son of a landowner. The first time he worked as a land surveyor. In 1752 he voluntarily joined civil uprising, participated in the fighting against the French and Indian tribes. In 1758 he completed his military career with the rank of colonel. Washington was actively engaged in the development of his vast estate and soon became one of the largest planters. In the years 1758-1774 he was elected several times to the Legislative Assembly of the State of Virginia, where he defended the rights of the colonies with Britain. Participated in the First Continental Congress as a delegate. After the outbreak of hostilities with Great Britain, he was popularly chosen as commander in chief of the Continental Army, which he successfully commanded until the surrender of the British troops in 1781. In 1789, George Washington, was unanimously and deservedly chosen first US President.

In 1792 George Washington was re-elected. He was one of the initiators of the construction of the new US capital. On December 14, 1799, George Washington died suddenly. On December 18, he was buried at his Mount Vernon estate in Virginia.

More about George Washington:

February 22, 1732, in Wakefield, Virginia, was born a major US statesman and military leader - George Washington, who by fate was destined to become the first American president.

Washington was born in rich family Virginia planter. At the age of 11, Washington lost his father, whose role was now assigned to the older brother Lawrence, who had a strong influence in shaping the views of the young Washington.

George didn't go to school, but he got a good home education. Although he drew the main science at his leisure from books.

In 1749 he became Surveyor of Culpepper County. In 1752, his brother died, and Washington inherited the estate of Mount Vernon. From 1758 to 1774 - He was elected several times to the state legislature. In 1752 he became a major in a local regiment. During the Seven Years' War, he took part in the battles against the French and rose to the rank of colonel.

In 1759 there were changes in his personal life. Washington married a young widow, Dandridge Custis.

Washington was an ardent opponent of the British colonial policy and supported the boycott of British goods. He was never committed to violent action, akin to the "Boston Tea Party" of 1773.

From 1774 to 1775 Representative of Virginia to the Continental Congress. After Washington realized that all attempts at reconciliation with the mother country were in vain, he defiantly dressed military uniform.

In June 1775 he was elected commander in chief american army. He held this post from 1775 to 1783. They say about George Washington that he created an army from nothing, an army that showed courage and bravery. For this, he was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal. After the signing of the Treaty of Paris in 1783, Washington resigned.

Some time later, he was elected President of the Constitutional Convention, and on April 30, 1789, he became President of the United States. In 1792, Washington was re-elected for a second term.

Washington accelerated the constitutional processes, supported the creation of new government bodies, and reconciled the three branches of government for a while. In the first term, he included two opponents in the government - Republican T. Jefferson and Federalist A. Hamilton.

Under Washington, the financial and industrial development country, but since the president supported the federalists, their opponents did not like it. Therefore, the situation in the country is extremely aggravated.

Relations with the Indians Washington decided with the help of military force. When in 1794 the country's first uprising of farmers in western Pennsylvania broke out, Washington did not hesitate to crush the uprising.

Washington was against US interference in the internal political situation in Europe. In 1793 he adopted the proclamation of neutrality. The threat of war with England was avoided thanks to the Jay treaty signed by Washington. In 1795, another Pinckney treaty was signed. According to the document, the United States established clear boundaries with the Spaniards and, which is also important, the Americans could now safely launch their ships along the Mississippi River.

On January 19, 1796, Washington made his will in the form of a Farewell Message. In the document, Washington called on its people to integrity and harmony, to strengthen friendly relations between states and countries.

Washington lived out his life at Mount Vernon. In 1798, the government asked the former president to take part in resolving the conflict with France and lead the army.

On December 13, 1799, Washington was overrunning his estate and was caught in sleet. The president died two days later. He was buried on December 18 at Mount Vernon.

In honor of the first president, the capital of the United States, a lake, an island, a mountain and a canyon and several other settlements, as well as a number of educational institutions, were named.

In 1888, a monument to the first President of the United States was unveiled in Washington, D.C. The monument reaches a height of 150 meters.

George Washington is born short biography which will be presented to your attention in the article, February 22, 1732 in Virginia and became the third child in the family. His father, a wealthy man, a large surveyor and slave owner, a successful tobacco planter, died when his son was only eleven years old.

Lawrence, George's half-brother and part-time participant in the Anglo-Spanish war, after the death of Augustine Washington became the new head of the family. In those years, slavery was extremely widespread in England: people were bought and sold, and everyone treated this as a common and common occurrence. But George from an early age had a slightly different opinion on this matter. The boy considered slavery an immoral and low phenomenon, but nevertheless recognized that it would take many more years to eliminate this social problem.

Meanwhile, Lawrence got his brother more and more interested in military affairs, telling stories based on personal experience. George had some success in his studies, was engaged in self-education, he stood out from the rest with his resourcefulness, curiosity and endurance.

Lord Faafex

A certain turning point in the life of Washington, after which life was divided into two periods, "before" and "after", was a meeting with one of the largest landowners and planters of those times - Lord Faafex. The situation is to some extent reminiscent of the story from Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby: a windy and inexperienced young man is directed on the right path by a wealthy sailor Dan Cody, who has moored to the shore.

Here Feafex acts as a mentor. He helps and supports George, captivates him with land surveying, teaches noble manners, introduces the guy to an adult independent life. Having accepted the offer of the lord, the future US president had the opportunity to go on a forest expedition, where he became closely acquainted with the culture of the Indians, their customs and traditions.

Military career

After the death of Lawrence, George inherited the estate of Mount Vernon, but the young man abandoned the routine and peaceful life of a planter and land surveyor and decided to try his hand at military affairs. Career began at the age of 20 with the rank of major. Washington was instructed to control the selection of young soldiers, to manage their training. Being a responsible person, the major approached his work very seriously, did not save energy, but rather, on the contrary, spent it all without a trace.

War with France

The relationship between France and England has always been ambiguous. The two major powers throughout their existence acted in their own interests. Especially the situation began to heat up in the late 40s of the 18th century. A military clash was inevitable.

As evidenced by the biography, George Washington, by that time already well-read, trained and quite experienced commander, in 1754 was placed at the head of several virgin regiments. Already at the beginning of the operation, Washington's detachment suffered a crushing defeat. The French were vastly outnumbered, which was the main reason for the loss.

However, the young commander was not blamed for the failure, on the contrary, the government thanked George for his bravery, courage and selfless service to the fatherland. Meanwhile, hostilities slowed down, over the next year things were quite peaceful: the powers were slow in making decisions.

Return to the front

After the first and immediately unsuccessful operation, Washington “left the battlefield” and returned to his estate, but peaceful life did not last long. Virginia again clashed with the French. The catastrophe was inevitable, and then the British government decided to provide support and allocated two regiments under the command of General Braddock.

The troops were sent to the colony, but the general was not ready to take on the entire burden of responsibility and command everything on his own. George arrived on the battlefield as Braddock's assistant. Near the Monongahele River, a major battle took place between the two armies. Once again, Washington's side suffered a crushing defeat. The general was killed, and his assistant with the remnants of the troops miraculously managed not to be captured.

Effects

Another failure had colossal consequences. The future US president decided once and for all to leave the battlefield and end his military career. However, this time George was not subject to censures and accusations. The Virginians loved the commander for his courage, courage and condescension towards his subordinates.

The resignation failed. George Washington, whose photo you have the opportunity to see in the article, took command of all the Virginian troops and continued to study military affairs. There were still many difficulties ahead. The situation was heating up: the Indian tribes were extremely hostile. The soldiers were, to put it mildly, untrained. The army consisted of 2000 people, most of whom were ordinary volunteers, adventurers and profit seekers. The task was not an easy one: to form a high-class and well-coordinated team from volunteers in the shortest possible time.

Fort Dukens and the end of the war

England again decided to help the Virginian colony and sent three detachments to help, in a compartment with General Abercrombie and Brigadier Forbes. After joining the detachments of Washington and the reinforcements that arrived from England, the general army moved to the Dukens fortress, which was the home of the main forces of the French army. The fort was surrendered without a fight: the opponents retreated to the Ohio River, and thus the Anglo-French war was over.

This time, already in 1759, George left military affairs and ended his career as a commander. Returning to his estate, the twenty-seven-year-old native of Virginia took up farming, and in particular his plantations.

post-war period

In relation to his slaves, Washington has always stood out for kindness and condescension. Since youthful years the whole system of slavery seemed humiliating, low and contrary to the essence of man. AT conflict situations George overwhelmingly resorted to persuasion and reasonable exclamations rather than punishment. This behavior was the result of a good upbringing and a correct system of values.

As for self-development, the young man did not lag behind here either. Throughout his military career, George read books, studied a variety of combat tactics, subjected himself to physical exertion, in particular, practiced swordsmanship. All this had a huge impact on Washington: he was restrained, educated, inquisitive, he was fascinated by the fate of the state, in particular the Virginian.

War for independence

No one will argue that George played a key role in freeing the American colonies from dependence on England. The immense contribution has long been appreciated by historians and has no direct analogues.

Training

Meanwhile, after the resignation, Washington led a peaceful and measured life. However, soon freedom movement touched him too. Great Britain needed funds, for lack of them, the state imposed higher taxes on its colonies. This caused widespread discontent.

Being the strongest patriot, George could not but join the struggle for independence, for him it was a paramount duty. By decision of Congress, convened on May 10, 1775, 10 formed regiments adjoined the Boston police. All together made up the general army of America, commanded by Washington, promoted to general.

But even at the stage of formation, certain difficulties arose. The troops, previously calculated for 20 thousand soldiers, did not exceed 5. This, in turn, significantly reduced the capabilities of the fighters for independence. And so the greater responsibility placed on Washington has increased.

First stage

The War of Liberation has begun. In 1776, troops under George's command force the enemies on land to leave Boston and the naval flotilla to sail far out to sea. Later, on July 4, 1766, the colonists proclaim their independence. Following the British government sends a letter outlining the terms of the cessation of hostilities. It is worth noting that this was done without proper respect. England has not yet recognized the States. The terms of the armistice did not satisfy Washington and the colonial government, the war continued.

Second phase

After the refusal by the States, the war continued in a new way. English General Howe soon realized that the colonists posed a real and very serious threat. This soon began to affect the state of military affairs. One of the main periods of the war was the winter of 1777-1778. The soldiers were subjected to colossal physical exertion, coupled with cold and hunger. But the courage of the freedom fighters did not allow them to give up and retreat back. General Washington was declared a dictator and had the right to make any decisions independently.

The final stage

In 1788, the most important battles took place at Princeton and Trenton, from which the colonists emerged victorious. France decides to recognize the independence of the States and under the treaty is obliged to help Washington.

Meanwhile, England, already realizing the deplorable state of her condition, decides to make peace with the colonists. And again the refusal: the Congress has already decided to go to the bitter end and snatch victory, no matter what it costs. And so, in 1781, under pressure from the troops of George and France, England capitulates and recognizes the independence of the United States of America.

Post-war sentiment

Capitulation of England and recognition of independence former colonies welcomed with pride and dignity. Of course, at first it was unusual to perceive oneself as a full-fledged state, it was necessary to work on the formation of a strong government, to begin to actively manage the affairs of the external economy.

George, after the end of the war, renounced all his dictatorial privileges and even the offer of Congress to reimburse all costs. Washington returned to his native estate and began to run a household and engage in social activities, namely the development of education and the widespread opening of public schools.

The entire American people was infinitely grateful to George for his invaluable contribution to the war and the victory of independence. All the highest political bodies saw in him the leader of the newly formed state.

Political activity

As stated above, former general had immense respect. It was for this reason that in 1787 George was chosen to attend the conference at which the new Constitution of the United States was to be drafted. It is worth noting that the same Constitution, but with only minor amendments and changes, is valid in America to this day.

The history of George Washington contains information that in April 1787 he was already unanimously, regardless of parties and beliefs, elected president. This event was extremely predictable, since it was difficult to find a candidate more suitable for such an important and responsible position.

First term

President George Washington began his reign in a measured manner and without drastic reforms: the country had just won the hardest war, it was necessary to wait until peace came, which the new president was just trying to maintain. Democracy flourished in the state, the citizens were not imposed, but instilled with the provisions of the Constitution, explained its correctness, fairness and objectivity.

The first President of the United States, George Washington, refused a salary. He needed only funds to maintain the White House. George did not pay attention to nationality and religion when recruiting government officials, he maintained good relations with Congress, but in no way indulged him.

Second term

The re-election of the first president, George Washington, passed without any questions: again, everyone single-handedly cast their votes for one candidate. During his second term in office, the president developed several very useful projects for the country, such as a financial development project. George also pursued a very competent foreign policy, maintained peaceful relations with other countries and did not question the independence of his state.

Personal life

Here in Washington, not everything is as dynamic and stormy as in its military and political career. Having met Martha Cathys in 1759, George took her as his wife. It was his only wife throughout his life.

demise

The first president of America, George Washington, died of an illness, namely pneumonia and severe laryngitis, on December 15, 1799. The whole country was in mourning. In honor of Washington, many buildings were named and his portrait was installed on the dollar bill. Today the grave of George Washington is a place of pilgrimage for thousands of Americans and guests of the country.

Afterword

Of course, George Washington, whose biography has become the subject of our review, is one of the most colorful figures in history. This man abolished slavery, won the independence of the United States of America and had an amazing military and political career.

George Washington was born in Virginia, the son of a wealthy plantation owner. Independently studied a number of sciences, including topography and military history. At the age of 16, he already worked on a topographic expedition, and a year later he became an official topographer (surveyor) in one of the districts home state. In 1751, he inherited a rich estate on the Potomac and became a shareholder of the Ohio Company, which sold land seized from the Indians.

Soon, Washington received the rank of major in the Virginia colonial militia (militia). In 1754, he participated in battles with French troops near Fort Duquesne, was taken prisoner when he defended Fort Necessity built by him (in modern Pennsylvania). The French released Washington and his detachment with military honors, after which he retired from service. But the following year, Washington rejoined the colonial militia with the rank of lieutenant colonel.

In the new military expedition to Fort Duquesne, he commanded the retreat of the militia after the French and their Indian allies ambushed them and killed the commander of the detachment of the English General Braddock. More than half of the English militias were killed in that battle. Washington showed personal courage and brought out of the encirclement all those who survived. For this feat, he was promoted to colonel and was appointed commander of the Virginia militia.

In May 1756, when Europe began Seven Years' War and England clashed in that war with France, Colonel George Washington led the defense of the western frontier of Virginia from the French. In 1759 he retired and took up social work. Before that, he tried to join the regular British army, but was refused. Soon he was elected to the Legislative Assembly of the State of Virginia, the 1st and 2nd Continental Congresses.

At the start of the North American Revolutionary War of 1775-1783, Washington appeared before the deputies of the Continental Congress in military uniform and offered his services as a military leader. Congress unanimously decided to create the Continental Army (as the American militia troops besieging the port city of Boston began to be called), on an additional recruitment of 6 rifle companies and appointed George Washington, promoted to general, as commander in chief of this army.

The Continental Army was formed from militias from various states, poorly armed and trained. General Washington set himself the task of turning it into a regular army and creating his own navy. Only in this case, he believed, could one count on victory over the English royal army. Soon, the Americans began to receive help with weapons and ammunition from Britain's opponents in Europe - the French king Louis XVI and Charles III of Spain.

On March 17, 1776, the Continental Army (20,000 men, 6,000 militia with heavy artillery) won its first major victory - during the siege of the city of Boston. Washington, by force of artillery fire, forced the 7,000-strong English garrison, commanded by the royal general William Howe, who suffered significant casualties during the fighting, to evacuate by sea from Boston to Halifax.

However, this was followed by an unsuccessful attempt by the Continental Army to defend the city of New York from the British. The London government ordered General William Howe to put an end to the revolution in the American colonies and sent him troops and a squadron under the command of his brother, Admiral Richard Howe, to reinforce him. In July 1776, 32,000 British troops landed on Staten Eilen (including 6,000 German mercenaries from Hesse).

Best of the day

General George Washington organized the defense of Long Island and Manhattan, personally selecting positions for artillery batteries. But he lacked everything - people, and guns, and ammunition. The British went on the offensive and defeated the enemy on Long Island (where General Israel Putnam commanded the American troops), and then attacked Brooklyn Heights.

On September 16, the American commander decided to leave New York. Washington soon had to cross the Delaware River and retreat to Pennsylvania, because in November the Americans suffered a serious defeat from the British regular troops, who significantly outnumbered the colonial militias in terms of numbers, combat training and discipline. The British captured two rebel fortifications on the banks of the Hudson - Fort Washington and Fort Lee, the rearguard troops of the Continental Army under the command of General Charles Lee surrendered.

The Continental Congress fled Philadelphia for the northern city of Baltimore. In desperation, Congressmen on September 12 granted the commander of the Continental Army, George Washington, dictatorial powers. Now the fate of the independence of the American colonies depended on his actions.

By that time, the demoralized army of the rebellious colonists numbered only three thousand people. Conscripts left her with the end of the conscription period for military service. English General William Howe had at his disposal a well-equipped and trained 34,000-strong army. After his victory in New York, he decided to wait until spring to finally defeat the American rebels. However, he did not take into account the decisiveness and initiative of the Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army.

On Christmas night in 1776, George Washington carried out his most famous military operation. Crossing the frozen Delaware River rebel army caught by surprise the mercenary (of 1,400 Hessian Germans) English garrison in Trenton and, with minimal losses, captured 900 soldiers and officers royal army. During the assault on Trenton, 30 Hessians were killed, along with the head of the garrison, Colonel Johann Rall, the rest either fled or surrendered. The Americans had five wounded and two froze to death. The colonists got a lot of trophies, including cannons.

Then they defeated the English detachment at Princeton, where large military depots were captured. These victories not only raised the morale of the Continental Army, but also attracted volunteers who wanted to defend the independence of the colonies from the British troops with weapons in their hands.

Washington decided to reorganize the army entrusted to him, realizing that it was not yet possible to defeat the British in a field battle. Time worked for the Americans, as the protracted war in the colonies exhausted the British military, which had considerable problems in other parts of the world.

Relying on the revolutionary enthusiasm of the Americans, George Washington managed in a short time to create a regular and combat-ready army, which now successfully acted against the British together with partisan detachments. The commander-in-chief took steps to defend the city of Philadelphia and prevented the invasion of royal troops from Canada.

On October 17, 1777, near the city of Saratoga, the American rebels won a convincing victory over the enemy - the encircled English troops under the command of General Burgoyne, numbering 5,700, capitulated here. In this battle, George Washington did not take a direct part, but commanders personally selected by him for the American regular army fought there. The Saratoga victory strengthened the colonists' belief in the possibility of gaining independence and defeating Britain in the war.

In order to create a truly regular army, its commander-in-chief, with the consent of the United States government and congressmen, invited military experts from Europe. The time of the militias was a thing of the past. A military specialist from Prussia, Baron von Steuben, played a particularly important role in organizing the combat training of the American army.

In 1778, in the North, the belligerents could not overcome the resistance of the enemy, but in the South, British troops began to successfully advance with battles through the territory of the southern colonies. At this time, George Washington led the fighting during the blockade of the borders of the state of New York, occupied by the British. He still considered the main thing to be the preservation of the regular army he created for the near future, since a war between France and England was brewing in Europe.

Washington was not mistaken in its calculations. Indeed, in the summer of 1778, France declared war on Great Britain and became more active in supporting the American rebels. In June 1779, Spain followed suit. The French fleet under the command of Admiral Jean Baptiste d'Estaing, with 4,000 troops on board, came to the aid of the American colonists, who participated in the unsuccessful siege of the seaside city of Savannah.

On June 20, 1778, the Battle of Monmouth took place. On the orders of George Washington, General Charles Lee (recently exchanged from British captivity), at the head of the vanguard of the Continental Army, launched an offensive against the British troops, commanded by General Clinton. However, at a critical moment, Lee ordered a retreat, which caused confusion in the ranks of the American army. Then George Washington personally inspired and rallied his army, and as a result of this, the Americans repulsed all the attacks of the British. During the night, General Clinton hastily retreated, and Washington blocked his troops in New York. General Charles Lee was dishonorably discharged from the army.

George Washington had already sent one of America's most gifted military leaders, General Nathaniel Green, to the South. He soon forced the British troops to retreat to the Yorktown Peninsula in Virginia. While General Green was on the offensive in the South, George Washington in the North was playing a waiting game, confident that time was on his side.

At this time, mutinies began in the ranks of the American army, caused by the depreciation of continental money and difficulties in supplying provisions. There were six rebellions in all, which were quickly suppressed by military force - at West Point, Morristown, Fort Stanwick, again at Morristown, Pompton and again at Morristown.

When the British troops were blockaded on the Yorktown Peninsula, George Washington, leaving a small part of his forces in the North - 2 thousand people under the command of William Heath to contain British activity in New York State, headed his troops (9500 people) to the South. The English commander, Lord Cornwallis, had only 8,000 men under his command.

The Continental Army was supported by a 7,000-strong French expeditionary force, as well as 36 warships of friendly France. The allied forces were commanded by Lieutenant General Jean Baptiste Donatien de Wimer, Comte de Rochambeau and Admiral de Ternay. Under the besieged Yorktown, first of all, troops trained by the Prussian baron von Steuben were sent. The Americans had plenty of artillery, including Gribeauval's latest French field guns.

The French fleet blocked the peninsula from the Atlantic, and now the British troops not only could not receive reinforcements from the sea, but also could not be evacuated from Yorktown on ships. The British held out to the last, retreating behind the inner line of the Yorktown fortifications, but they could not find a way out of the situation. Constant skirmishes and artillery shelling (the siege artillery of the Americans approached at a direct shot distance) completely exhausted the besieged, and their command decided to stop resistance, without waiting for help from General Henry Clinton from New York. She arrived in time by sea when the English garrison of Yorktown had already laid down their arms.

On October 19, 1781, George Washington accepted the surrender of the British Royal Army from Lord Cornwallis. The victory at Yorktown was the only one in Washington's military biography, but it turned out to be quite enough to win the complete victory of the American colonists in the war for independence from Great Britain.

In November 1781, General George Washington returned to the North and laid siege to New York. By that time, all the British troops evacuated from the American colonies were concentrated in this city under the command of Sir Guy Carleton.

On November 30, 1782, the Treaty of Paris was signed, which recognized the independence of the United States and declared the end of hostilities between the United States and Great Britain. November 23 next year british army evacuated from New York. The troops of George Washington entered the city. On December 4, the victorious general said goodbye to his officers in a French tavern.

In 1789, the commander-in-chief of the American Continental Army became a national hero and was elected the first President of the United States of America. The authority of George Washington was so high that in the elections of 1792 he was re-elected to the presidency for the second time. However, he refused to put forward his candidacy for the third time.

The young state had a lot of worries. In 1794, there was a whiskey rebellion in Pennsylvania. In 1790 and 1791, the Maumi Indians in the Ohio River Valley inflicted a series of defeats on American troops.

Concerned about these events, the American Congress in July 1792 adopted a resolution on the organization new army called the American Legion. President George Washington called out of retirement General Anthony Wayne, and he under the city of Pittsburgh began to train a new army. In August 1794, General Wayne, at the head of the American Legion, numbering 3.5 thousand people, set out on a campaign to the North. On August 20, a battle took place with the main forces of the Maumi Indians, who were surrounded by cavalry from the flanks and utterly defeated.

After becoming President of the United States, the former commander-in-chief of the Continental Army pursued a conservative policy. George Washington was one of the founders of the two-party system in the country, which still exists today. Since 1793, when Revolutionary France was at war with a coalition of European monarchies, President Washington refused to fulfill the allied obligations under the 1778 American-French treaty.

Moreover, in 1798-1800 the United States waged a so-called "quasi-war" against France. She lined up naval battles American warships with the French in the waters of the West Indies. In total, during the “quasi-war”, the American navy captured 85 French ships and vessels, mainly privateers, from which the American maritime navigation suffered. Later, President Washington strongly opposed any US involvement in the wars of European states.

From compatriots, George Washington received the honorary title of "Father of the Fatherland." As head of state, he did a lot to strengthen the military power of the United States and its prosperity.

Washington spent the last years of his life at his Mount Vernon estate, where he died at the age of 67. He went down in history as a progressive political figure, becoming key figure in the armed struggle for independence English colonies in North America, which ended in complete victory for the Americans. He was a supporter of the gradual abolition of slavery in the states, with his will he freed the Negro slaves who personally belonged to him. Their capital was also named after the first president of the United States.

George Washington is the first President of the United States, elected by the people and considered one of the founders of the United States. Living in the 18th century, he was a large and wealthy slave owner. George Washington - member American Revolution, author of the US Presidency Institute and leader of the Continental Army.

The biography of the future US president began on February 22, 1732 in Virginia, on the Pops Creek plantation. George became the third of five children in the family of a wealthy slave owner, planter and land surveyor Augustine Washington, who died when the boy was eleven years old. After that, his older half-brother Lawrence became the head of the family. George was homeschooled and placed importance on self-education.

Born into a family of slave owners and inheriting a fortune, Washington considered slavery to be contrary to the norms of morality and morality, but he believed that the emancipation of slaves would occur only after decades.

Lord Fairfax, the richest landowner of Virginia of those times, played a big role in the fate of young George Washington. He became a kind of mentor for a young man who lost his father in childhood, and provided him with friendly support in building a career as a surveyor and officer.

George's older brother died when he was twenty years old, the guy inherited the Mount Vernon estate, as well as eighteen slaves. From the age of 17, Washington worked in Culpepper County as a surveyor, and after the death of his brother, he became the leader of one of the districts of the Virginia militia in the status of a major.

In 1753, Major Washington received a difficult assignment: to inform the French of the impossibility of moving towards the Ohio River Valley. Over the course of 11 weeks, George overcame a path full of dangers, the length of which was 800 kilometers, and as a result, he completed the assignment. In 1755 he was taken prisoner in a battle against Fort Duquesne. Washington was soon liberated, and during a second campaign against this fort, he showed courage and was awarded the rank of colonel.

After that, the young man became the commander-in-chief of the Virginia Provincial Regiment. Under his leadership, the regiment continued to fight the Indians and the French and take up defensive positions. However, in 1758, at the age of 26, George Washington decided to give up his career as an officer and resigned.

Young Washington's worldview was heavily influenced by English Literature early XVIII century. George's original idol was the ancient Roman politician Cato the Younger. Like an ideal, the future president of America tried to use only the classical style of speech, to conform to the model of virtue in his personal and public life, to restrain facial expressions and gestures at a decent level.

Growing up, Washington became a reserved, disciplined person who constantly controlled his emotions and did not allow himself to lose his composure. He treated religion with respect, but without fanaticism.

Politics

Abandoning a career as an officer, George Washington married and became a prosperous slave owner and planter. At the same time, politics continued to play a leading role in his life, and in the years 1758-1774 he repeatedly made successful attempts to become a deputy Legislative Assembly Virginia.

As the owner of a large plantation, George learned from his own experience that the policy of Great Britain did not meet the requirements of our time. The desire of the British authorities to curb the development of industry and trade in the colonial lands was severely criticized. This is partly why Washington formed an association in Virginia, which had as its goal a boycott of English-made goods. Patrick Henry also helped him in this.

The struggle for the rights of the colonies became a matter of principle for George. In 1769, he drafted a resolution that secured the right to establish taxes only for the legislative assemblies of colonial settlements. However, soon public interest in this problem declined due to the abolition of customs duties. The tyranny of Great Britain in relation to the colonies left no room for reconciliation, and after the very first clashes between the colonists and the soldiers of this country, George Washington defiantly began to wear a military uniform, realizing the inevitability of a break.

War for independence

Deciding that America needed him as a military leader, the future first US president offered the services of the Continental Army. In 1775 he received the status of commander in chief of this army. The basis of the military forces, led by George Washington, were militia units recruited from the states.

At first, American soldiers had many problems with discipline, training and equipment. However, gradually (thanks to the efforts of the commander in chief) an effective and combat-ready army was formed, which successfully used the loose formation technique in battles with the British, who used the traditional linear formation.

George Washington initially led the siege of Boston. In 1776, the troops defended New York, as a result of several battles they could not resist the pressure of opponents and surrendered the city to Great Britain. In late 1776 and early 1777, Washington and the troops took revenge from the British in the battles of Trenton and Princeton, and in the spring of 1777 their siege of Boston ended in success. This victory is also important in strategic terms: successful battles with the enemy increased the motivation and morale of American soldiers.

This was followed by: the victory at Saratoga, the liberation of the central states, the surrender of the armed forces of Great Britain at Yorktown and the end of hostilities in America. After these battles, American officers began to doubt that Congress planned to pay them a salary for their time in the war. Trusting George Washington, who was famous for his honesty and strict moral principles, they wanted to make him the leader of the country.

The American Revolution officially ended in 1783 with the signing of the Treaty of Paris. Immediately after this event, the commander-in-chief resigned his powers and sent letters to the governments of the states in which he advised them to strengthen central government to prevent the disintegration of the country.

First President of the United States

After the end of hostilities, George Washington returned to his estate. However, the history of his native country continued to interest him, and he closely followed the political situation in the United States. In 1786, his supporters, after his draft, helped bring down the Massachusetts Farmers' Rebellion.

Soon Washington was elected head of the Philadelphia Constitutional Convention, which in 1787 issued a new US Constitution, then elections were held. The retired commander-in-chief was so popular in society that the electors unanimously voted for him (both for the first time and for the re-election of the president).

As head of state, George Washington sought to instill in Americans respect for the Constitution, to preserve democratic change. recent years, surround yourself with intellectuals capable of working for the good of America. At the same time, Washington tried to cooperate with Congress and not interfere in political conflicts within the country. In his second term, the first US president developed a competent program for the industrial and financial development of the country, saved America from involvement in European conflicts, forced the Indians to give up many territories (mainly using military force), and banned distilled alcohol.

Internal and foreign policy George Washington met with resistance in some social strata, but the attempts of rebellion by the president and his army managed to be quickly suppressed. After completing two terms in office, he received an offer to run for a third term, but declined due to the provisions of the Constitution. During his reign, he officially renounced slavery, but still managed his plantation and looked for slaves who escaped from it. In total, he had 390 slaves in his possession.

Personal life

In 1759, George Washington married the wealthy widow Martha Custis, who became his first and only wife. Martha owned a mansion, 300 slaves, and 17,000 acres of land. George used this dowry wisely, turning it into one of the most profitable estates in Virginia. The marriage of George and Martha was a long and happy one. The children of Custis from their first marriage were brought up in this family, the spouses did not have common children.

Death

The first American president died on December 15, 1799. Two days earlier, he had been out in the pouring rain and snow, surveying his estate on horseback. Returning home, he did not take off his wet clothes and decided to have dinner right in it. The next morning, Washington developed a fever, a throat infection, and a severe runny nose, symptoms of pneumonia and acute laryngitis. Medicinal preparations of the 18th century could not help him, moreover, they aggravated his condition (doctors used bloodletting and treatment with mercuric chloride).

In 1888, a 150-meter memorial was erected in the American capital in honor of the country's first president. A bridge across the Hudson River (one of the longest in the United States), a nuclear aircraft carrier, and a university in Washington were also named in his honor. The dollar bill is decorated with a photo with his portrait. And, of course, it was in honor of the first president of the United States that the American capital got its name.

In 2000, the biographical film "George Washington" was released, there is also a series of the same name and other films, one way or another devoted to politics.

• One of the main crops grown on the Washington plantation was hemp. In the 18th century, it was used to make paper, ropes and fabrics.
• George Washington became the only American president to win 100% of the electoral vote in both elections.
• The first president of the United States never wore wigs, having a mop of red hair by nature. In the portraits that have come down to our time, his hair seems to be light, since, according to the fashion of the 18th century, it was heavily powdered.
• George Washington was an accountant and wrote several books on proper financial reporting. Even during the presidency, he himself controlled the income and expenses of his estate, because "it's easier to keep track of every penny."
• The famous politician and military leader was an excellent horse rider, but he had his own "fad": the horse on which he was to ride had to shine with perfect cleanliness. Washington gave this rule so much great importance that even looked into the animal's teeth before sitting on it.

Quotes

• We should look back only for the sake of learning from past mistakes and benefiting from dearly bought experience.
• The most effective means of maintaining peace is readiness for war.
• Work so that those tiny sparks of heavenly fire that are called conscience do not die in your soul.
• If you value your reputation, associate your life with respectable people.
• Do not express joy at the sight of the misfortune of another person, even if he is your enemy.