George Washington
George Washington is one of the most iconic figures in American history. He was an important leader during the Revolutionary War and served as America's first president from 1789 to 1797. As a Founding Father, he played a key role in shaping the future of our nation by helping to draft and ratify both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. His legacy lives on today through his many monuments, memorials, parks, portraits, statues, coins, stamps, and other items that bear his likeness or name.
Washington was born into a wealthy Virginia family in 1732. From an early age, he showed promise as a leader; while still just 15 years old, he joined Britain's colonial militia during the French & Indian War (1754–63). After returning home following six years of military service abroad, he became involved with various aspects of local politics and government administration, which eventually led him to be chosen as Commander-in-Chief for the Continental Army during The Revolutionary War (1775–83).
During this time, Washington distinguished himself through numerous strategic victories over British forces, such as at Saratoga (1777), which helped turn around American fortunes in what had been up until then an increasingly hopeless struggle against overwhelming odds. In addition to being lauded for his leadership abilities on the battlefield, it was also noted how well he treated common soldiers compared with those from higher social classes; this earned him immense respect amongst those under his command who viewed him not only as their commander but also as family due to these acts of kindness throughout much hardship endured together over eight long years fighting for independence before peace treaties were finally signed between Britain. and America, ending hostilities once more.