What makes a person as prodigious leader: personality, leadership, integrity, or something else? A great leader has all of the following expertise and more. A leader is someone that can command a group without overriding them. Someone that is caring but hard, strong but weak, tough but gentle. The best leaders are those who can adapt to any situation and thrive. George Washington was one of the best leaders we have ever seen. He not only led the fight in many wars he shaped the United States by creating and passing countless acts that are still around today.
To be great a great leader you need to be able to organize and teach large groups of people. "Leadership is something that many aspire to, but few achieve in full measure. It
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Richard C. Stazesky, in his article entitled, “Gorge Washington, Genius in Leadership”, wrote that Washington had the qualities of a visionary leader. When defining a visionary leader, Stazesky states, “. . . In brief, the visionary leader has a vision into the far future, can develop an effective organization and can attract others to strive also for the attainment of his/her vision so that it becomes a shared vision and they all work together in an organization that sustains the vision, its beliefs and its values.” One of many examples of Washington’s visionary leadership was his commitment to the concept that, in a republic the military must always be subject to civilian control. Even when he disagreed with Congressional decisions, he led the military to act in accordance of congress’ decisions. Furthermore, Washington rallied his troops for a common cause even under the worst …show more content…
George Washington felt it was his duty and moral obligation to help his country. He was not out to prove to anyone that he was “the best”. He had strong beliefs in his cause and he was convicted to making his vision for our country a success. Bob Cordery, in his article, “George Washington-the greatest leader of all time?” explains that “Leadership is something that many aspire to, but few achieve in full measure. It has been defined as being a combination of charisma, integrity, determination, flexibility, resourcefulness, creativity, self-confidence, a sense of responsibility, the ability to communicate, and consistency. George Washington had all these qualities, and it is therefore somewhat ironic that although he was truly a great leader, he never aspired to be one.” He states that there are many writing from others that over and over again testify to the fact that George Washington had personal character traits and skills of trustworthiness, organizational and administrative skills, excellent commination skills and compassion. On June 15, 1775 the Continental Congress admired Washington to such a high degree that all the delegates unanimously elected him to command all the continental forces for the defense of American
In the book of His Excellency: George Washington by Joseph J. Ellis, the author introduces Washington, the Father of the United States, in a fresh portrait focused on the characters of Washington. This book is an impressive biography of Washington's remarkable dedication to the United States history. According to the author, George Washington is an omnipresent figure as he was growing up, described as the man in the moon who was aloof and silent. This book focuses on Washington's wartime service which became some of his major contributions to the United States, rather than merely telling the true story of Washington, its main thesis is focusing on analyzing his contributions and how his governorship had affected the American history. Washington's life is divided into three areas in this book.
One of the guiding facets of Washington’s personality which led his character was “an absolute unwillingness to be led astray by personal gain or idealogical distractions”…”Morals integrated him and held his being together, even as they connected with his fellow Americans.” (Palmer 392) Washington was an honest and direct man, “who he was and what he did were the same… the heart of Washington’s leadership was pure character.” (Palmer 392) Washington’s lifelong unwavering loyalty to his principles made him a great leader, one that left such an impact on the country that he will be remembered for all time. Washington possessed all four of the traits that make up a strong character; fortitude, temperance, prudence and
Washington wanted to protect his reputation, he worried about it often. He had high expectations to live up to and he didn’t want to disappoint his people. Although, many people at the time were quite disappointed after they talked with him because he didn’t have a lot to say and he wasn’t considered an “intellectual” (33). But what he lacked he made up for in the way he executed his decisions. Washington was a superb military leader being the commander in chief.
George Washington exemplified the attributes of statesmanship and leadership throughout his life as an American Founding
Washington was a genius on the battlefield and came up with helpful tactics. He also obtained the ability to keep his struggling army together. Washington not only lead his army, but guided, directed and motivated them to persevere and keep going.
When the country called upon him, unanimously electing him to the presidency, he stated: ”’ My movements to the chair of government, will be accompanied by feelings not unlike those of a culprit, who is going to the place of his execution, embarking the voice of the people, and a good name of my own, on this voyage; but what returns will be made for them, Heaven alone can foretell’" (Ibid., XI, 379-80). Although he didn’t want to lead this country, Washington understood the country needed a strong leader, like him. Given his military background, he wanted to unify the country under one strong leader.
George Washington was indispensable in launching the U.S government. Although many opposed his political views at the time, Washington's leadership capabilities were unquestionable after his victory in the American Revolution. Our victory over Great Britain would have been doubtful if not for Washington and his judgement. Before becoming president, Washington led in drafting the Constitution, which is the foundation of America. When he became president, Washington believed in unity and a strong central power.
Ambrose notes that while President Washington is often credited with be being a successful general, his army lost more battles than they won (Ambrose 9). Despite this and the fact that President Washington was not as educated as President Jefferson, he was true leader. There is no better example than President Washington and his men crossing the Delaware River in 1776 or overcoming freezing, harsh conditions the next winter at Valley Forge, winning the Revolutionary War (Ambrose 10). Despite the adverse climate conditions, President Washington was able to motivate and lead an army of under supplied, minimally trained men to victory against the powerful British army. The prize:
That said, he had a powerful reason to make these suggestions: he wanted to maintain unity. If George Washington was alive today, his
This army was led by none other than a man named George Washington, who would lead America to become an independent country with his wits and
Although unrelatable and underappreciated in the eyes of modern history, George Washington shows his greatness through his character. Contemporary culture often neglects to recognise Washington’s greatness. Sadly, he has become a figure so far removed from the ideals and lives of modern Americans, that his name often provokes boredom. Nonetheless, his character proved to be perfect for what America needed during his life. His greatness was largely due to chance.
George Washington had many roles throughout his life: planter, army general, statesman, and husband. In the end, however, his time as President of the United States proved to be his most challenging role. Although Washington had little desire to govern the new republic and continuously doubted his ability, he also knew that he was the only person the American people trusted enough to act as their leader. During his time as president, George Washington encountered many challenges, including establishing a new system of government, facing enormous financial debt from the War of Independence, and disagreement about how to proceed with regards to foreign policy and domestic conflicts.
For example, George Washington was the Leader of the Continental army (Mountvernon). He did this because he had served before and wanted change. Plus, George Washington did not have a lot of experience. He learned on the job by fighting and watching. As a result we developed a government that has lasted and is still being used.
What makes a leader? I believe a leader to be intelligent ,tough, and has the determination to achieve a goal. Having certain skills will have an impact on you being a trustable leader. Being selfless and caring are also characteristics. Malcolm X his birth name Malcolm Little is a fine a example of a leader and has most of these leadership qualities.
Generally speaking, a leader is a person who leads or commands a group, organization, or country. There are many different styles of leadership and the majority of them are very effective, but despite these different approaches, all good leaders share a handful of characteristics. So, what are these qualities that make a good leader? We are going to take a closer look at some of these traits including, but not limited to, good communication, the ability to delegate and a strong level of commitment to see how these qualities can help to make someone a good leader.