The Men who Shaped America
My country ‘tis of thee. Some of the most honored and respected members of our great nation, the founding fathers are those fantastic individuals who began the United States of Americas as we know them. Thanks to this fact, they also changed human history forever. Before this point in time, no one could’ve guessed that such a small rabble of farmers and simple shopkeepers could be able to take on such a mighty force as Great Britain and succeed. This was just another doomed revolution that would become a minor footnote in the history books.
However, with the efforts of the American people and the brilliant minds of their leaders, they were able to come out on top despite their underdog status. Indeed, some of the bravest and brightest people in the world at the time were those who participated in this Revolution. Their goal was to form a new system of government that would improve upon the ancient Republic system and make it work in their era. From uber-geniuses like Ben Franklin to unshakable soldiers like George Washington, today we honor the land of the free by remembering the great people who established it.
George Washington
George Washington, as the first president of the U.S.A., his legacy is everlasting. Perhaps the single most influential man of the 18th century, George Washington is known by every self-respecting American patriot. Born in the year 1732 in Virginia, Washington grew up working as a surveyor, mapping and purchasing the land of his birth state.
He first tasted leadership in the military during the French and Indian War where his aptitude earned him high praise from his peers. After the war, he returned to his estate at Mount Vernon where he opposed the many acts of Britain upon their colonies. Because of this, he was selected by the Second Continental Congress to lead the American militia once it was clear war was imminent.
Thanks to his brilliant tactics and unbending will, battle after battle was won in the grueling campaign of the Revolutionary War. After Washington’s brilliant victory over the English at Yorktown, America finally was granted its independence. At this point, Washington hoped to retire, but his new country needed him yet. After the failure of the Articles of Confederation, Washington attended the Constitutional Convention and used his popularity to ensure the approval of this new governmental framework.
Even then he wasn’t done with his service to his land. Due to the large demand from the citizenry of the fledgling country, he even accepted the position of first president. With his strong leadership, he set the course of how the president would execute their office, such as influencing the fact that presidents should serve no more than two terms. Washington would die in 1799 and even free his slaves upon his death. He will forever be known as one of the greatest Americans to ever live.
Writer / Quiz Creator
Andrew Nicholas is a passionate reader and writer on the subjects of history and mankind. He is a published author, critic, and poet who grew up in the friendly scenery of rural Ohio. He is a graduate of Wright State University and a regular student of historical curiosities.