1. George Washington

2. “His Excellency” 43 year old wealthy Virginia planter 43 year old wealthy Virginia planter Modest & humble; yet ambitious and very loyal to the cause Modest & humble; yet ambitious and very loyal to the cause Stern, almost aloof; demanded discipline. Stern, almost aloof; demanded discipline. Very organized & detailed. Very organized & detailed. Pragmatic: he was realistic & very aware of the situation Pragmatic: he was realistic & very aware of the situation

3. General Washington Experience: Colonial Officer in the French-Indian War. Experience: Colonial Officer in the French-Indian War. Brave-cool under fire.* Brave-cool under fire.** 1775: Given control of the Continental Army. 1775: Given control of the Continental Army. Realized they were a rag- tag group. Realized they were a rag- tag group. He felt discipline and patient leadership was needed. He felt discipline and patient leadership was needed.

4. Military Experience No experience as a commander. Never led an army in battle. Never directed a siege. Yet, Congress felt he was the best choice. Washington knew his limitations.

5. “I beg it may be remembered by every gentleman in the room that I this day declare with the utmost sincerity, I do not think myself equal to the command I am honored with.” In his speech before the Continental Congress:

7. “I heard the bullets whistle; and believe me there is something charming in the sound.”