“Of all the dispositions and habits, which lead to political prosperity, Religion and Morality are indispensable supports.”

— George Washington, Farewell Address, 1796

About George Washington

1732 – 1799

First President of the United States and commander of the Continental Army.

“If new difficulties arise, we must only put forth new exertions and proportion our efforts to the exigency of the times.”

“Nothing is a greater stranger to my breast, or a sin that my soul more abhors, than that black and detestable one, ingratitude.”

“Discipline is the soul of an army. It makes small numbers formidable; procures success to the weak, and esteem to all.”

“We live in a country where the people own the Government and not in a country where the Government owns the people.”

“It would be thought a hard Government that should tax its People one-tenth Part of their Time, to be employed in its Service.”

“The long, dull monotonous years of middle-aged prosperity or middle-aged adversity are excellent campaigning weather.”

“In all things success depends on previous preparation, and without such previous preparation there is sure to be failure.”

“When I meet a government which says to me, "Your money or your life," why should I be in haste to give it my money?”

“I had not achieved a success; but I provoked an uproar; and the sensation was so agreeable that I resolved to try again.”