George Washington: Becoming American

How Washington Exchanged Britain for America

Katherine Mudge
U.S. History 8, period 2
Date: 2-5-16

Typically, we think of George Washington as: our first president, founding father, and
leader of the American Revolution. These grand titles make it hard to fathom that he
existed. I wondered, who exactly was George Washington? I like graphic design so I
decided to build a website to bring this textbook figure to life.
I found most of my resources in the library and online. Most historical sights, artifacts,
and documents are in the East Coast, so I was not able to visit them. Most of the
information about Washington pertained to his leadership during the Revolution and
presidency. It was difficult to find information about Washingtons early life relating to
his exchange in loyalties. I pieced together data from several sources to build the
sequence leading to Washingtons exchange. I learned to narrow my reading material by
locating specific passages. Then I sorted the information into categories supporting my
thesis. I also interviewed an assistant editor of the Papers of George Washington, Neal
Millikan. She clarified confusing information and verified the information I was using.
To develop my project, I did general research to create my thesis. I outlined my website
by creating tabs that supported my thesis. I researched each topic in detail. Then I wrote
my analysis and selected the quotes, documents, and pictures to support my thesis. I did
run into roadblocks. Sometimes I had to check several sources to resolve conflicting
information. It was difficult finding pictures there were no cameras then! Instead I
used photos of modern reenactments and artifacts. Another problem related to primary
source quotes. Washington spoke very little in public and did not make many speeches. I
used research references to his private correspondence to locate quotes. The handwritten
documents were difficult to read, but luckily there were transcriptions. It was hard to read
this older form of English. I added video clips to the website from notable historians to
provide background and support my information.
My thesis relates to the theme of explore, encounter, and exchange because it displays the
process by which Washington became American. He explored paths to become a
successful British gentlemen. However, he was disillusioned by treatment as second-class
citizen and his efforts were blocked. In contrast, he became a self-made success within
America. His character and American success allowed him to bring the thirteen
colonies together, win independence, and establish the new republic. If the British had
accepted Washington, he would not have exchanged loyalties and we would not have had
a leader to unite the colonies. He was the face of America, leading the troops in battle,
and the leader guiding Americas new government. As the first president, he set
precedents for the future leaders of America. Washington dreamed of a country that was
equal to any other, built on the American self-reliance we pride ourselves to today.