The Nation, which indulges towards another an habitual hatred, or an habitual fondness, is in some degree a slave. It is a slave to its animosity or to its affection, either of which is sufficient to lead it astray from its duty and its interest. ... The Nation, prompted by ill-will and resentment, sometimes impels to war the Government, contrary to the best calculations of policy. The Government sometimes participates in the national propensity, and adopts through passion what reason would reject; at other times, it makes the animosity of the nation subservient to projects of hostility instigated by pride, ambition, and other sinister and pernicious motives. The peace often, sometimes perhaps the liberty, of Nations has been the victim.

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.