This essay talks about George Washington as one of the best presidents of the United States. George Washington played a vital role in the development of the United States of America. He was one of the founding fathers of this great country. He served as commander in chief of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War and later served as the first president of the United States. His thoughts and ideas helped shape the United States into the country it is today. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay George Washington was born on February 22, 1732 in Westmoreland County, Virginia. He was the eldest son of Mary Ball Washington and Augustine Washington. His early education included the study of subjects such as mathematics, land surveying, the classics, and the "rules of civilization." Washington then developed a powerful and persuasive speaking and writing style. He enjoyed social occasions and playing sports. His father died in 1743, and soon after George went to live with his half-brother, Lawrence, on his plantation on the Potomac at Mount Vernon. Lawrence became something of a father figure to his brother. His brother had married into the Fairfax family, a prominent and influential Virginia family that helped launch George's career. In 1748, George began exploring lands in the Shenandoah Valley and was later appointed surveyor for Culpeper Country. When Lawrence died in 1752, George inherited the Mount Vernon estate. In 1753, the growing rivalry between the French and British for control of the Ohio Valley erupted in the French and Indian War. This war created new opportunities for the young Washington. He first came to public notice when Governor Robert Dinwiddie sent him on an unsuccessful mission to warn the French commander at Fort Le Boeuf against further invasions of territory claimed by Britain. Washington's journal of the dangers and hardships of his journey, published in Williamsburg upon his return, may have helped him gain his subsequent promotion to lieutenant colonel at just 22 years old. George Washington was a great military leader. Not simply because the war was successful. His greatest strength was being open to the ideas of others. He was also an excellent judge of people. He ignored the military tenants of the time and ignored social rank and influence in choosing his subordinates. Henry Steele Commager once observed that Washington's sacrifice for America was supported by the fact that he had served as commander of the Continental Army without pay and was nearly bankrupt due to the time he returned home to Mount Vernon after serving as first president of the country. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay That perseverance and vision for a nation that was created to establish the structure, boundaries, and protections to enable the pursuit of life, liberty, and justice. George Washington shared that vision, fought for that vision, and carried that vision forward throughout his presidency.