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Biography
George Washington: American Revolutionary
He is the father of our country, and the subject of myth, legend and reverence. But just who was George Washington? What did he do to become an icon? How did one man come to exemplify the spirit of revolution, and the noble experiment of democracy? This episode of BIOGRAPHY presents the life and career of George Washington. Emphasizing Washington's contributions to the American Revolution, it examines Washington's role in the world's most famous rebellion, and how one man changed the course of history, and a nation's destiny. George Washington: American Revolutionary would be useful for classes on America History, American Culture, Military History, Civics and Political Science. It is appropriate for middle school and high school.
OBJECTIVE
Students will examine the role of George Washington in the ideological as well as the political formation of the United States. They will analyze Washington's effect on the course of events leading up to and including the American Revolution, as well as the political genesis of republicanism.
NATIONAL HISTORY STANDARDS
George Washington: American Revolutionary fulfills the following National Standards for History for grades 5-12: Chronological thinking, historical comprehension, historical analysis and interpretation, historical research capabilities, historical issues-analysis and decision-making for eras 2 and 3.
Vocabulary
Discussion Questions
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During his lifetime, Americans considered George Washington the country's "most trusted man." Why? Compare the reputation of George Washington with some of today's politicians.
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Why is George Washington considered the "father of our country?" What other figures in American history are counted among the "founding fathers?"
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Many myths and legends surround the memory of George Washington. How do the man and myths differ? What other figures in American history have reached mythic proportions?
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Discuss the role of social status in George Washington's world.
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How did the death of Augustus Washington (Washington's father) affect George Washington?
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George Washington led the Continental Army to victory against the British during the American Revolution. How did Washington begin his career as a soldier?
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Washington always designed his own uniforms. Why?
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George Washington married the wealthy widow Martha Custis. How did this marriage elevate Washington's social status?
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Discuss the reasons for the American Revolution.
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How did George Washington personally change the course of the Revolution?
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The American form of republican government has been a blueprint for modern nations seeking a democracy. But in 1781, a republican form of government was revolutionary. Why?
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Why was Washington elected as the first president of the United States?
Extended Activities
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George Washington's life had a profound impact on American history. Choose someone who has had an impact on history and write an essay about that person's role on the course of events. How is that person a historical catalyst? How might history be different if that person had never been born?
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George Washington's family had a coat of arms that dated back to medieval England. Design a coat of arms for your family.
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Cartoons are a time-honored form of political dissent in America, even during the Revolution. Create your own cartoon depicting any form of rebellion in American history.
Related Videos
Primary Sources
- Draft copy, Library of Congress, Washington, D.C., Washington Papers. A docket on the manuscript reads: "Rocky Hill 2d Novr 1783 Genl Washington's Farewell Orders to the Armies of the United States. The Paper of George Washington, University of Virginia.
Air Dates
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