Battlefield Legacy |
Image: The Prayer at Valley Forge, 1975
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Washington was an extraordinary and dignified leader. His mere presence inspired others to follow him. He had an incredible talent of endurance and never giving up, he always survived, regardless of the situation. He kept his small militia together even through the several wars they went through or the small pox that was inflicted upon them, Washington still managed to keep them together. It's incredible because this position only seems fit for Washington himself; it would be unbelievable if any other general would be able to do what he did. Washington played smart, he knew he didn't have the military advantage to overcome the British so he had to devise his battles strategically instead of approaching them head on.
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Image: George Washington riding his horse Nelson
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Presidential Legacy
What makes George Washington even more extraordinary than any other ordinary man is the fact that he voluntarily retired from office, giving up the power and position he had. People who have that power usually don't want to leave but Washington did it without a second thought, which makes him such an incredible leader and an exemplary model. He helped create the nation and also preserve the nation by giving up the power so no one is able to abuse it. By doing so he set a precedent that is now part of the Constitution that you cannot serve more than two terms in office.
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Image: Portrait of George Washington (made in 1850)
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Proclamation of Neutrality
In 1793, France decided to declare war on Great Britain and other European nations in the middle of their French Revolution (genius). So when Europe and France were in war George Washington had two choices: to become involved in the war or to remain neutral. George Washington issued this Proclamation of Neutrality in 1793. This Proclamation would make America's position as neutral during their conflict and if any citizen who offered their services to help any of the nations at war, they would be prosecuted. This proclamation was probably the first official articulation that dealt with American foreign policy and it set precedent of neutrality that would be an example of how we handle foreign relations for a long time. In fact, the Proclamation of Neutrality continues to spark debate even today with our involvement with foreign affairs.