Summary Of The Greatness Of George Washington By Gordon Wood
George Washington is considered one of the most important figures in American history. In his article, "The Greatness of George Washington," Gordon Wood explores why Washington is still revered today, despite the criticisms he faced during his lifetime. Wood argues that Washington's greatness lies in his ability to embody the ideals of the American Revolution and his commitment to republican virtue.
Wood notes that Washington's contemporaries were often critical of him. Thomas Paine, for example, accused Washington of being "treacherous in private friendship... and a hypocrite in public life" (Wood, 2000). Similarly, John Adams wrote that Washington had "no faculty for debate" and was "too illiterate, unlearned, unread for his station and
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Roosevelt. Overall, Wood's article makes a convincing case for Washington's enduring legacy as a founding father and the indispensable role he played in the creation of the United States.
In addition to Wood's article, David McCullough's biography of Washington also explores the reasons for his greatness. McCullough emphasizes Washington's leadership qualities, particularly his ability to inspire and motivate his troops. He 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. As McCullough writes, "He was always aware of the image he presented, the message he sent, and the example he set" (McCullough, 2005). Washington's commitment to republican virtue was particularly evident in his decision to resign his commission as commander-in-chief of the Continental Army at the end of the Revolutionary War. This act helped to establish the principle of civilian control of the military, which remains a key aspect of American democracy
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