George Washington's Milestones

George Washington was the first President of the United States, commander of the Continental Army during the American Revolution, and set enduring precedents for the presidency from 1789 to 1797.
1732

Birth

George Washington was born in Westmoreland County, Virginia, to Augustine and Mary Ball Washington.

Family February 22, 1732
1740

Early education

Received a basic education in mathematics, surveying, and manners from local tutors and his older half-brother.

Education January 1, 1740 - June 1, 1748
1749

Surveyor of Culpeper County

Appointed official surveyor of Culpeper County, Virginia, at age 17.

Career July 20, 1749 - November 6, 1752
1753

French and Indian War service

Served as a militia officer in the French and Indian War, gaining military experience and regional fame.

Career October 31, 1753 - December 27, 1758
1758

Elected to Virginia House of Burgesses

Elected as a representative to the Virginia House of Burgesses, serving until the Revolution.

Career July 24, 1758 - June 15, 1775
1759

Marriage to Martha Custis

Married Martha Dandridge Custis, a wealthy widow.

Relationship January 6, 1759
1775

Commander-in-Chief

Appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army during the American Revolution.

Career June 15, 1775 - December 23, 1783
1777

Winter at Valley Forge

Endured the harsh winter at Valley Forge, training and reorganizing the Continental Army.

Other December 19, 1777 - June 19, 1778
1781

Victory at Yorktown

Led American forces to victory at the Siege of Yorktown, effectively ending the Revolutionary War.

Achievement October 19, 1781
1787

President of the Constitutional Convention

Presided over the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia, shaping the U.S. Constitution.

Achievement May 25, 1787 - September 17, 1787
1789

Elected first U.S. President

Elected the first President of the United States, serving two terms.

Achievement April 30, 1789 - March 4, 1797
1793

Proclamation of Neutrality

Issued the Proclamation of Neutrality, keeping the U.S. out of European conflicts.

Achievement April 22, 1793
1796

Farewell Address

Delivered his Farewell Address, setting precedents for the presidency and warning against political parties and foreign alliances.

Achievement September 19, 1796
1797

Retirement at Mount Vernon

Retired to Mount Vernon, managing his estate and remaining a respected national figure.

Other March 4, 1797 - December 14, 1799
1799

Death

George Washington died at Mount Vernon, Virginia, after a brief illness.

Other December 14, 1799