George Washington

"The hour is fast approaching, on which the Honor and Success of this army, and the safety of our bleeding Country depend. Remember officers and Soldiers, that you are free men, fighting for the blessings of Liberty..."

WHO HE WAS: George Washington is often called the "Father of our Country" and was the first president of the United States. He was born into a wealthy Virginia family who owned a plantation. His father died when he was young and he was raised by his older, half-brother who was named Lawrence. When he was a young man, he traveled with Lawrence to Barbados in the West Indies. He may have been inspired to join the army by the military officers that he met there. George Washington had a very impressive military career during the "French and Indian War." He retired from service and, after the death of his brother, took over the running of their estate. 

He soon became frustrated with the laws and regulations that the British put on plantation owners. Because of this, he attended the First and Second Continental Congresses. He was selected to lead the war against the British because of his impressive record of military service. 

WHAT HE SAID: "The hour is fast approaching, on which the Honor and Success of this army, and the safety of our bleeding Country depend. Remember officers and Soldiers, that you are free men, fighting for the blessings of Liberty -- that slavery will be your portion, and that of your posterity, if you do not acquit yourselves like men." --1776