There can be no greater error than to expect, or calculate, upon real favors from nation to nation. It is an illusion which experience must cure, which a just pride ought to discard.

1777 campaigns
In the late summer of 1777 the British under John Burgoyne sent a major invasion army south from Quebec with the intention of splitting off rebellious New England. United States Constitution

Washington's retirement to Mount Vernon was short-lived. French and Indian War (or 'Seven Years War' 1754–1758)

In 1753 the French began expanding their military control into the "Ohio Country" a territory also claimed by the British colonies of Virginia and Pennsylvania.

As the leader of the first successful revolution against a colonial empire in world history Washington became an international icon for liberation and nationalism especially in France and Latin America. Chosen by the Second Continental Congress in 1775 to be commander-in-chief of the Continental Army in the American Revolution Washington managed to force the British out of Boston in 1776 but was defeated and almost captured later that year when he lost New York City. His leadership style establiGeorge Washingtond many forms and rituals of government that have been used since such as using a cabinet system and delivering an inaugural address.