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| The Life of George Washington |
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By Mason L. Weems. Edited by Marcus Cunliffe. ISBN 0-674-53251-1. Copyright 1962. Softcover with 226 pages. This book contains the famous, if mythical, cherry tree anecdote: "'George,' said his father, 'do you know who killed that beautiful little cherry tree yonder in the garden?'…he bravely cried out, 'I can't tell a lie, Pa; you know I can't tell a lie. I did cut it with my hatchet.'" This story, along with others, made this book one of the most influential in the history of American folklore. Originally appearing as a pamphlet by Parson Weems shortly after Washington's death, this work reappears here as a scholarly piece. Mr. Cunliffe, the editor, delivers a kindly judgment of Weems' work: "Weems supplied distinct needs for the American imagination."
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