George Washington Equestrian Statue
by Thomas Ball, 1869. Thomas Ball (1819-1911)
was an American artist and musician. His
work has had a marked influence on monumental art in the
United States, especially in New England.
George Washington (1732-1799), was one of the Founding
Fathers of the United States, serving as the
commander-in-chief of the Continental Army during the
American Revolutionary War and later as the new republic's
first President. He also presided over the convention that
drafted the Constitution. Washington, D.C., the capital of
the United States, is named for him, as is the State of
Washington on the nation's Pacific Coast.
Washington was elected the first president by unanimous
choice in 1788, and he served two terms in office. He
oversaw the creation of a strong, well-financed national
government that maintained neutrality in the wars raging in
Europe, suppressed rebellion, and won acceptance among
Americans of all types. His leadership style established
many forms and rituals of government that have been used
since, such as using a cabinet system and delivering an
inaugural address. Washington is universally regarded as the
"father of his country."
Photo 30, April 2012