George Washington

Denied a formal English education, Washington developed practical skills and discipline through early schooling and self-study.

After the death of his father, when Washington was only 11, he inherited enslaved people.

Washington’s first career as a surveyor provided valuable frontier experience.

Washington’s surprise attack on a small French force helped spark the French and Indian War.

Washington embraced the role of a gentleman farmer, experimenting with innovative practices to make Mount Vernon more efficient and profitable.

Washington’s 17 years in the Virginia legislature helped him build important connections and learn the legislative process.

His marriage to Martha Dandridge Custis formed a partnership that strengthened Washington’s path to success.

As a member of Virginia’s gentry, Washington took a leadership role in the Anglican Church.

A close examination of his writings provides many clues as to why Washington joined the Revolutionary War.

Early military service planted the seeds of Washington’s growing disillusionment with imperial rule.

A British proclamation fueled Washington’s frustrations as he struggled to secure lands promised for his military service.

Explore how Britain’s punitive measures pushed leaders like Washington closer to revolution.

Follow Washington in real time as he takes command of the Continental Army and leads the fight for liberty against Great Britain.

General Washington was central in securing America's independence.

Explore a fascinating selection of weapons, accoutrements, and gear that Washington used over the course of the Revolution.

At Yorktown, with crucial French support, Washington’s army defeated British forces and secured the victory that led to American independence.

Washington experimented with crop rotation, livestock breeding, and other innovations to promote a more efficient and sustainable American agriculture.

Although they had no biological children, George and Martha Washington raised a large, extended family at Mount Vernon.

Washington relied on the labor of enslaved people at Mount Vernon, where their work sustained his household, farms, and livelihood.

Washington promoted improving the Potomac River to strengthen economic ties and preserve the unity of the young nation.

Concerned about competing state interests, Washington hosted the Mount Vernon Conference, helping lay the groundwork for greater cooperation among the states.

Called out of retirement as the union faltered, Washington presided over the Constitutional Convention, where delegates forged a new government.

Everyone expected Washington to win the first election in 1789. But an important question remained: Would he accept the job?

As the nation’s first president, Washington faced the challenge of setting lasting precedents.

Washington’s Farewell Address stands today as a timeless warning about the forces that threaten American democracy.

Less than three years after retiring from office, Washington’s sudden death shocked the nation he helped forge.

In his final act, Washington arranged to free the people he enslaved, ending slavery for many at Mount Vernon.