The Political History of the United States 3.26 Enter George Washington
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Apr 4, 2022 Discover George Washington's pivotal emergence on the historical stage! Delve into the tensions at the Forks of the Ohio, where French and British ambitions collide. Explore Washington's family roots and the challenges he faced during childhood, including the impact of his father's death on his education. Learn about his unexpected path from a blocked naval career to the role of surveyor. As the French and Indian War looms, uncover why Washington was selected for a critical mission, setting the stage for his future as a leader.
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Early Loss Shaped Washington
- George Washington was born on February 22, 1732, as the eldest son of Augustine and Mary Ball Washington.
- He lost his father at 11 and was denied the formal education his older brothers received, shaping his lifelong insecurity about schooling.
Washington's Scholars Complex
- Washington lacked the polished formal education of Jefferson, Hamilton, or Adams but was not unintelligent and loved reading.
- He always felt inferior academically, which influenced how he positioned himself among more scholarly founders.
Washington's Complicated Slavery
- George inherited Ferry Farm and his first 10 slaves, beginning a complex lifelong relationship with slavery.
- He disliked slavery in principle but remained unable to extricate himself from the institution during his life.