The hour is fast approaching, on which the Honor and Success of this army, and the safety of our bleeding Country depend. Remember officers and Soldiers, that you are free men, fighting for the blessings of Liberty -- that slavery will be your portion, and that of your posterity, if you do not acquit yourselves like men.

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.