Why David McCullough thinks George Washington is first among equals of the Founding Fathers, and the indispensable American. For more, visit charlierose.com
This nation would have failed if not for Washington. Had Washington not been Commander in Chief of the Continental Army, president of the Constitutional Convention, and the first president of the United States, the nation would’ve failed.
I just spent some time standing in the room where America was born at Independence Hall yesterday , contemplating the nature and strength of George Washington while looking at his rising sun chair still in place as set up while the Constitution was being created. I , along with my wife, could sense the history that hung thick on every surface of this hallowed hall like dust that must never be removed. I wholeheartedly believe that these incredible United States are ONLY here by the grace of God Almighty , evidence is everywhere of this from the Christmas Eve crossing into New Jersey to take Trenton to the incredible retreat from Long Island over a rough tidal flat in total darkness with men, beast and artillery without a single loss of life followed by a fog that would prevent the British from attacking across that water allowing Georges battered and defeated forces to survive to continue to fight. General Washington is not simply a figure on our currency, a name on our public schools, he is truly the only man chosen by God , his imperfect nature allowed men to identify with him, his vulnerable salutation as most of his sick and exhausted army was ready to return to their farms noting that in the service of his country he had gone mostly blind donning his spectacles to read a proposal of monies on the way quietly planting the seed of independence in the hearts of all in attendance who in anyones eyes had earned the right to return to peace , to the warm embrace of family the result was that not a single man faltered in their duty as Revolutionaries choosing to stay in the fight and would carry the spirit of General Washington in those hearts all the way to Yorktown.
Washington reminded me of Cato! I never knew of that famous play. He had what Cato lacked, and that was respect of the troops. Cato helps explain why many founding fathers didn't accept French bribes.
Charlie Rose: Superb interviewer and flawed human being. David McCullough: Great and well-informed explainer of history. For all of the former's imperfections, we need more of both in these historic times -and even a pale replica of George Washington would be highly welcome.
No. We must honor them. We need them as holy symbols. They are sacred because of what they accomplished. If you don't understand that then you have a lot to learn about the world.
Great overview of George Washington’s legacy. But I totally disagree with him on one assertion: George Washington was one of the greatest Presidents, but definitely not the greatest! NOBODY comes close to Abraham Lincoln! He preserved the Union and Fred the slaves! He is the greatest!
I would admit that Abraham Lincoln was vital to our country but enduring war as a soldier and choosing to step down from his powerful post will always keep General Washington as my favorite , he is the man who allowed America to exist , Lincoln made it fair
Washington set the character and tone of the office of the presidency that all future presidents look back too. He also, along with Hamilton, created a strong central government that put a check on states becoming too strong too soon. I am a huge Lincoln fan, however I do not believe I am over reaching when I say if there had not been a Washington there would not have been a Lincoln. As the other Founding Fathers recognized; Washington was the one and only indispensable man.
This nation would have failed if not for Washington. Had Washington not been Commander in Chief of the Continental Army, president of the Constitutional Convention, and the first president of the United States, the nation would’ve failed.
The single most important man in America
100%
Yes a true statement. Don’t forget he could have been king if he wanted it.
The Indispensable Man
I just spent some time standing in the room where America was born at Independence Hall yesterday , contemplating the nature and strength of George Washington while looking at his rising sun chair still in place as set up while the Constitution was being created. I , along with my wife, could sense the history that hung thick on every surface of this hallowed hall like dust that must never be removed.
I wholeheartedly believe that these incredible United States are ONLY here by the grace of God Almighty , evidence is everywhere of this from the Christmas Eve crossing into New Jersey to take Trenton to the incredible retreat from Long Island over a rough tidal flat in total darkness with men, beast and artillery without a single loss of life followed by a fog that would prevent the British from attacking across that water allowing Georges battered and defeated forces to survive to continue to fight.
General Washington is not simply a figure on our currency, a name on our public schools, he is truly the only man chosen by God , his imperfect nature allowed men to identify with him, his vulnerable salutation as most of his sick and exhausted army was ready to return to their farms noting that in the service of his country he had gone mostly blind donning his spectacles to read a proposal of monies on the way quietly planting the seed of independence in the hearts of all in attendance who in anyones eyes had earned the right to return to peace , to the warm embrace of family the result was that not a single man faltered in their duty as Revolutionaries choosing to stay in the fight and would carry the spirit of General Washington in those hearts all the way to Yorktown.
A great example and lesson for 2024!
American legend. RIP
Washington reminded me of Cato! I never knew of that famous play. He had what Cato lacked, and that was respect of the troops. Cato helps explain why many founding fathers didn't accept French bribes.
Charlie Rose: Superb interviewer and flawed human being. David McCullough: Great and well-informed explainer of history. For all of the former's imperfections, we need more of both in these historic times -and even a pale replica of George Washington would be highly welcome.
Wow, an intelligent conversation based on real research and insights. I remember this. Where else can we find this today?
Anywhere outside the shameful travesty of what has become of the current Republican Party.
You can still find it (online) because in mainstream media this kind of thing is dead is a cat splat on the road!
God damn right, Mr. McCullough......Greatest President and greatest American! There is no country but for George Washington.
These men had values and were willing to sacrifice their wealth and lives to form our nation !
Fascinating
no fan of Rose....but I love watching these old interviews just to hear David speaking about his writing(s).
His best book is the Panama Canal - A Path Between the Seas.
Everyone Of The Found
Clark Donna Anderson Sarah Martinez Elizabeth
Jackson Daniel Harris Steven Clark Larry
In my opinion, James Madison, father of the constitution, was the best Founding Father.
We have to stop putting these men on Sacred pedestals and simply be grateful for the gift they gave us. That gift was a Republic.
No. We must honor them. We need them as holy symbols. They are sacred because of what they accomplished. If you don't understand that then you have a lot to learn about the world.
Young Deborah Garcia Jessica Taylor Ronald
Great overview of George Washington’s legacy. But I totally disagree with him on one assertion: George Washington was one of the greatest Presidents, but definitely not the greatest! NOBODY comes close to Abraham Lincoln! He preserved the Union and Fred the slaves! He is the greatest!
I would admit that Abraham Lincoln was vital to our country but enduring war as a soldier and choosing to step down from his powerful post will always keep General Washington as my favorite , he is the man who allowed America to exist , Lincoln made it fair
Had there been NO George Washington there been NO Lincoln!
Washington set the character and tone of the office of the presidency that all future presidents look back too. He also, along with Hamilton, created a strong central government that put a check on states becoming too strong too soon. I am a huge Lincoln fan, however I do not believe I am over reaching when I say if there had not been a Washington there would not have been a Lincoln. As the other Founding Fathers recognized; Washington was the one and only indispensable man.