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About this quote

What does it mean?
This fragment praises an individual as a foundational figure of the new nation.
In plain terms
This person is the first great citizen of the new country.
What can you take from it?
Recognize foundational figures in national history.

Where it applies

  • historical praise
  • national rhetoric

Putting it to work

  • honor founding figures

Questions to consider

  • Who qualifies as the first citizen of a new nation?

Another view

The fragment lacks context to identify the specific subject.

More from George Washington

  1. Washington wasn't born good. Only practice and habit made him so.

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  2. Posterity will talk of Washington as the founder of a great empire, when my name shall be lost in the vortex of revolution.

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  3. If I were to characterize George Washington's feelings toward his country, I should be less inclined than most people to stress what is called Washington's lov…

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