George Washington

With the exception of Franklin and De Crevecoeur,  choose any other colonial American of note and write a post outlining their significance for the establishment of a distinctive American identity

George Washington was born on the 22nd of February 1732 in Virginia. Most well known for being the first president of the United States from 1789 to 1797.

Born into a family running plantations in Virginia, Washington started in the rural regions of the state before joining the Virginia militia in 1753. Washington attempted to gain a commission in the British Army but failed, this is a very significant point, if he would have joined the US army, history could have panned out differently. Upon returning to Virginia, Washington entered politics, not being significantly involved in the colonial resistance until protests of the Townshend Acts in 1767. The acts primarily introduced to help fund the British war effort. Washington was then involved in many major acts preluding to the Revolutionary War including the Boston Tea Party. He was then nominated as commander-in-chief of the Revolutionary Army. Washington lost many battles as a commander but failed to allow his troops to ever surrender which showed the spirit he had instilled into his troops. Washington was voted unanimously  to be the first leader of the new nation in 1789.

To me, George Washington's effect on US Society during this period was significant. His ability to come back after being beaten down, such as after being denied entry to the British Army. He went back to start again as a politician, his perseverance and determination was  instilled in all revolutionaries at this point. Which is why it is less of shock that the British lost America. The American identity at this point was one of perseverance and determination, George Washington had these traits in abundance. To which he instilled in the public. This to me is why today many Americans have a sense of self belief and the mindset that they will succeed if they put the effort in.