Washington's Legacy

James Craik and George Washington shared over 40 years of friendship. Craik, who served with Washington in both the French and Indian War and later in the Revolutionary War, was also Washington’s personal physician. On the morning of December 14, Craik was called to treat his old friend, who had fallen ill in the night.

George Washington served as a mentor to the young Hamilton, who joined his military “family” as an aide de camp during the Revolutionary War. Hamilton later served in Washington’s cabinet as Secretary of the Treasury and was a trusted adviser to the first president. Upon hearing of Washington’s death, Hamilton was in the unique position of feeling the loss of a personal friend and mentor, and understanding the loss to a nation.

The young Marquis arrived in America at the age of 19 ready to serve the cause of liberty in the American Revolution. He quickly became part of Washington’s military family and over the years, their relationship grew to that of a father and his adoptive son. When Lafayette was imprisoned during the French Revolution, he sent his son, George Washington Lafayette to live with President and Mrs. Washington where the he was treated as family. Although they did not see each other, the friendship between Washington and Lafayette remained closely knit through correspondence. At Washington’s death, Lafayette keenly felt the loss of a much beloved father figure as well as a symbol to the world of quiet leadership and honor.

Imagine a world turned upside down? From the time of your birth until early adulthood, George Washington had been a constant in your life. You have never known a time when the General did not stand ready to lead the nation. What will the future hold?