George Washington And Benedict Arnold: A Tale Of Two Patriots By Dave R. Palmer
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In his book, George Washington and Benedict Arnold: A Tale of Two Patriots, Dave R. Palmer’s thesis is that character is the attribute which defines a principled leader. Palmer conveys his thesis by contrasting and comparing Benedict Arnold and George Washington. The author supports his thesis throughout this book by detailing Washington and Arnold's significant differences in the virtues that ancient greek philosophers posited as essential elements of character when held in balance; Fortitude, Temperance, Prudence, and Justice. As Palmer himself states on page 399,” For at it’s very core, George Washington and Benedict
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Once the danger had passed, their decision to give so much power to one man, albeit a very trustworthy man, made them uneasy. Congress made it their mission to try and take the given powers back. They attempted to undermine his reputation and complained about the way Washington ran the army, not understanding in the slightest the conditions and limitations the army were currently experiencing.In addition to Congresses incessant complaints, Washington’s army was falling apart. Men were returning home daily by the droves. Even the men Washington had previously persuaded to reenlist through his “Christmas Campaign” were leaving. He was forced to rebuild his forces, using his new powers to call men to join. Publicly, Washington maintained his calm demeanor, but privately he fumed. Congress was intentionally making things difficult for …show more content…
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
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