Research: Good Examples of the Student Creed

George Washington

George Washington was a giant in his time. Some people believe his height intimidated his troops, which contributed to his ability to take order and made him a great leader. The events in his life show he was committed to personal growth.

Washington lived a long life. He was born February 22, 1732 in Virginia. Little is known about his early life, though we know he was born to a farmer. He spent his early years working on his father’s farm. Working on the farm made him well built and lean. He was home taught by his mother. Between the farm and the schooling, I think, he learned to work hard and have self discipline.

After Washington turned 16 he spent most of his time at Mount Vernon. He learned the finer points of how to be acceptable in society and make polite conversation. He rarely smiled, though, for the simple fact that his teeth were never very good. I wonder “did people found this rude”?

On April 30, 1789 Washington took his oath as the first President of the United States.
“As the first of everything, in our situation, will serve to establish a precedent,” he wrote James Madison, “it is devoutly on my part, that these precedents may be fixed on the true principles.” (George Washington www.whitehouse.gov ) He must have been very devoted to feel this was his responsibility.

Washington is known as “The father of his country.” He was a surveyor, farmer, and soldier. He held the continental army together at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania during the winter of 1777- 1778. After his presidency, in 1798, he was once again appointed Commander in Chief of the army. He held this title ‘till his death 18 months later on December 4, 1799. this shows how much his fellow countrymen appreciated what he did for them.

In conclusion, George Washington was a man who did something with his life. Starting out as a farmer he became the first President of the United States. We should all learn from his example and know that just because we weren’t given much doesn’t mean we can’t make our lives much more.