Ramsay's Life of Washington
Published eight years after George Washington's death, David Ramsay's Life of George Washington achieved great popularity. A contemporary of Washington, historian Ramsay writes with the knowledge and insights one acquires only by being on the scene.
Actually, Ramsay was an active player in the momentous events of America's unfolding drama. He was twice elected a delegate to the Continental Congress, and served as its chairman in a specially-appointed post. Ramsay's Life of George Washington — like his widely-acclaimed History of the America Revolution — is part of the Keigwin and Mathews Collection. In 13 chapters it covers Washington's life from his early years to his death in 1799. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
P.S. On the title page at right, note the signature "W. Washington" at the upper right. Appleton's identifies him as William Washington, second cousin of George Washington. William served as a colonel in the Revolutionary War and fought with distinction in many battles. Just prior to the end of the War, he was wounded and captured by the enemy.
Portrait of George Washington
George Washington was elected Commander in Chief of the Continental Army by the Second Continental Congress in May 1775. For the next six years, he led his ill-trained troops in a grueling war with Britain. Washington took the oath of office as the first President of the United States on April 30, 1789. He is often referred to as the father of the nation because of his leadership and influence in the founding of the United States. The story of George Washington's life is fascinating and insightful.