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How Did George Washington Influence The American Revolution

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Regarded as one of the most beloved figures in American history, George Washington maintains an almost godlike image in the minds of many. Despite his reputation as a leader, Washington was not always flawless in his military exploits. His time in the French and Indian War granted him the experiences and skills needed to be effective as commander of the Continental Army, and not all of these experiences included victories. It was the knowledge Washington gained in the French and Indian War, and the war itself, that helped the colonies to obtain their independence from Great Britain. The effects of the French and Indian War laid the groundwork for what would become the American Revolution and, ultimately, the United States. The British’s victory at the conclusion of the French …show more content…

It was in the French and Indian war that Washington was able to develop certain skills and tools that would grant him success in the Revolution. When Governor Dinwiddie wished to form a military force for the frontier, it was Washington who was made lieutenant colonel. Previously, Washington had been used to carry an ultimatum to French troops at Fort Le Boeuf where he gained knowledge of the terrain. As lieutenant colonel, he attempted to control unruly men while making his way to the Ohio territory. Despite his instructions from Dinwiddie to “act on the Difensive,” Washington and his Indian allies surrounded French troops camped at a nearby glen and ambushed them. This battle resulted in the deaths of thirteen Frenchmen and twenty-one prisoners. Following the battle, the wounded leader of the French troops, Ensign Joseph Coulon de Jumonville, claimed that Washington attacked men on a diplomatic mission. Regardless of the true intent of the French, the battle of Jumonville Glen angered the French and they desired revenge. This, ultimately, led to the beginning of the French and Indian

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