Leadership Timeline
Mount VernonLeadership: Sorting it Out George Washington's Leadership
Learn how Washington became the leader of the Continental Army and the United States!
Explore the Timeline1753
Colonel in the French & Indian War
Washington’s military experience began with the French & Indian War. He was commissioned as a Major in the Virginia militia and fought on behalf of the British.
Representative to the House of Burgesses
Washington served in Virginia’s House of Burgesses for 15 years, representing Frederick and Fairfax Counties.
1774
Delegate to the First Continental Congress
Virginia’s Committee of Correspondence invited the other colonies to meet as a Continental Congress. Virginia sent seven representatives, including Washington, Peyton Randolph, and Patrick Henry.
Commander in Chief of the Continental Army
Washington’s strong leadership and determination held the military together for eight years. On December 23, 1783, he willingly surrendered his position.
1787
President of the Constitutional Convention
Washington was elected unanimously to be the president of the Constitutional Convention. He created an atmosphere that allowed the members to talk and compromise. This resulted in the creation of a new government.
President of the United States
Washington was unanimously elected President of the United States – twice! Washington played an essential part in shaping the role and function of the presidency.
1799
Plantation Owner
During and after his presidency, Washington was a plantation owner. His experiments with new crops and farming techniques reflected his desire to be financially independent. By the time of Washington's death, he was among Virginia’s wealthiest planters.
