The Newburgh Conspiracy

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Learn more about the Newburgh Conspiracy and the role George Washington played in saving the republic at its most vulnerable point.

Was the young American nation at risk from a military coup in 1783?  Watch as Dr. James Kirby Martin, a nationally recognized scholar of the Revolutionary War, discusses in a four-part series the conspiracy that threatened to destroy the nation before it began. 

The Conspirators

The Conspirators

Read more about the mutiny that almost was, and one of its possible architects, in this piece from Mount Vernon's Digital Encyclopedia.  

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From the Collection

From the Collection

See a 20th-century representation of George Washington celebrating peace with Great Britain in his Newburgh headquarters.  Restlessness and inaction during the long peace process played a major role in the rise of the Newburgh conspiracy.

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Circular Letter

Circular Letter

At the close of the American Revolution, George Washington wrote a letter to the governors of the 13 states.  Read the letter here, and learn more about Washington's hopes and vision for his new nation.

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Teacher Resources Teacher Resources

The Newburgh Conspiracy

Start: March 10, 1783 - First Newburgh Address
Key Issues: Continental Army officers protested a lack of adequate provisions and delays in pay
Threat: Members of the army threatened to use force to get what they wanted, or leave the British army unopposed
Solution: A direct appeal for patience and patriotism from George Washington to his officers
End: March 15, 1783

Be Washington

Solve the Newburgh Conspiracy

Solve the Newburgh Conspiracy

Its March, 15, 1783 and your officers, poorly paid and supported, are contemplating action against Congress. What will you do?  Play the Newburgh Conspiracy scenario in Be Washington.

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Award-Winning Video

A More Perfect Union

A More Perfect Union

Watch Mount Vernon's newest animated video presentation about George Washington and the forming of the U.S. Constitution. 

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Washington and the Revolutionary War

Learn more about how General George Washington led the American army to victory in the Revolutionary War.

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