His Excellency: George Washington By Joseph J. Ellis
“His Excellency: George Washington” by Joseph J. Ellis is a captivating biography of America's first president, George Washington. The book covers Washington's life from his birth in 1732, to his death in 1799, and his legacy that still resonates today.
Ellis begins the book by describing the upbringing of George Washington. He was born into a wealthy Virginia plantation family and inherited his family's plantation, Mount Vernon, at a young age. Washington was raised to be a gentleman farmer, but he always had a passion for military life. He began his military career as a young man, and over the course of his life, he would become a general, a president, and a national hero.
One of the most interesting parts of the book is Ellis's portrayal
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He describes Washington's rise to the rank of general during the Revolutionary War and his leadership in the Continental Army. Ellis argues that Washington's greatest strength as a military leader was his ability to inspire his troops. He was not a brilliant tactician, but he had a charisma and a presence that inspired those around him. Washington's leadership was crucial in the victory over the British and the establishment of the United …show more content…
Ellis's portrayal of Washington as a complex and conflicted man is both refreshing and insightful. The book is not a hagiography, but a nuanced and honest portrayal of a man who played a pivotal role in the founding of the United States. Ellis's writing is engaging and accessible, making this book an excellent choice for anyone interested in American history.
One of the most interesting parts of the book is the way that Ellis portrays the relationship between Washington and his wife, Martha. Ellis argues that Martha was an important influence on Washington, providing him with emotional support and a stable home life. Martha was also involved in Washington's public life, hosting events and entertaining foreign dignitaries. Ellis describes how Martha was an important figure in Washington's life and helped to shape his legacy.
Another strength of the book is the way that Ellis places Washington's life in the context of the times. He provides a detailed description of life in colonial America and the challenges that Washington faced as a military leader and president. Ellis also provides insight into the political and social issues of the time, such as slavery and the role of the federal
His Excellency George Washington Summary
1017 Words | 5 PagesAs the author stated in his book that he does not have the intention to compete with other writers or historians, but his idea was to give a clear an fresh portrait of Washington that focused largely on his characters. I will recommend this book to those that are willing to known Washington and people who are unfamiliar with the founding father of United States. This biography introduces readers into the remarkable events and significant life experiences of the first president of United States in the shortest time, without
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1670 Words | 7 PagesOne 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
Summary Of Washington The Indispensable Man By James Flexner
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George Washington Research Paper
1917 Words | 8 PagesWashington was a thorough disciplinarian and emphasized a lot on training. He charged with his troops against Indians in the west and in a time span of just ten months his troop had fought twenty battles and lost a third of the men, as put by Ellis “it was his unqualified success” in the war (Ellis p.38). Though Washington never got commissioned in British Army yet he had closely observed British military tactics this led him to gain keen insights into military strategy and strengths and weaknesses of the British Army and this proved as a decisive and invaluable resource during the Revolution. Washington was tough, courageous and had a commanding presence which made him appear to be a natural leader to the troops and they followed him without any questions (Ellis p.
George Washington Dbq Essay
946 Words | 4 PagesGeorge Washington led the continental army during the American Revolution in a remarkable win against the British. His excellent work in the war would lead him to become the first president of the United States of America. Washington began his military career during the French and Indian war and didn’t do a great job; his first mission was a complete embarrassment. Washington really came to light during the American Revolution, he was selected to lead the continental army. Washington and his men would define all odds and defeat the British.
George Washington Character Traits
2772 Words | 12 PagesLater in life, George Washington’s works show he was aware of his lack of advanced education. He made up for it by being an observant student of the behavior. And actions of others. Washington’s experience on the frontier and in the army helped develop his confidence. These experiences encourage leadership skills that offset his lack of an advanced education, allowing him to interact easily with men of greater education and worldly experience.
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483 Words | 2 PagesNo American today could imagine a country without a president, or without Washington, because if the patriots had not had George who was “…determined…to cross the river & make the attack upon Trenton…” (Washington), the United States of America would not even exist. George Washington was born on February 22, 1732 in Virginia (Knott). Washington never got beyond elementary school, however due to a skill in math, got a job with Lord Fairfax, a powerful businessman (Knott). After inheriting Mount Vernon because of his brother’s death, Washington joined the British Army (Knott).
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1587 Words | 7 PagesEveryday George Washington is seen around without people even realizing it, his face is seen on the one dollar bill and quater,his name is read everywhere, whether it is in towns,colleges, schools and even states. Of all the things a president needs, the most important trait is loyalty, and Washington had just that. Most people admired his sense of thinking. It was always fast and quick, he never doubted himself and that is something to admire. He also found himself in some sticky situations, whether it be Hamilton and Jefferson 's many disagreements, a law to pass.
George Washington's Childhood
328 Words | 2 PagesLittle more is known about Washington’s childhood, and from this ignorance sprang many myths. It is known that; his father died when he was eleven years of age, and assuming that his mother was already deceased, he was placed in the custody of his mother,
Outline On George Washington
328 Words | 2 PagesGeorge Washington 1st U.S. President Born: February 22, 1732, in Westmoreland County, Virginia, VA Died: December 14, 1799, Mount Vernon, VA Presidential term: April 30, 1789 – March 4, 1797 Married to: Martha Washington (m. 1759–1799) George Washington was a leader of the Continental Army. From July 3rd 1775-1783 He was in the American Revolution.
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552 Words | 3 PagesHave you ever wanted to know about George Washington’s background? He was an outstanding leader and lived a full life. He was president, and a christian, who lived a nice full life. This essay will tell you about his background, politics, and what his religion was. He was elected commander and chief of the Continental Army in May 1775.
The Life And Death Summary By Mason Locke Weems
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716 Words | 3 PagesHe notes that Washington was not a brilliant strategist, but he had a talent for understanding his men and boosting their morale. McCullough writes, "More than anything, it was Washington's presence that counted, his ability to keep going, to keep believing, to keep fighting, to stay the course" (McCullough, 2005). McCullough also emphasizes Washington's commitment to republican virtue. He notes that Washington saw himself as a servant of the people and was always conscious of the importance of setting a good example.
Review Of His Excellency: George Washington By Joseph J. Ellis
984 Words | 4 PagesThese resources help to support Ellis’s interpretation and historical accuracy of Washington's life which were very specific to the subject. Many of these sources include professors of history from various colleges and the leaders of the museum on Mount Vernon. Much of the information provided relies on Washington’s journal and records kept by others. Obtained primarily through scans of some of the documents stored in Mount Vernon to see for himself. By observing his relationships with others, and his actions in events, these resources are used to build a picture of Washington’s
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