President George Washington Takes Command of the Army: July 3
July 3 is a legendary day in U.S. presidential history — it’s the date in 1775 when George Washington officially took command of the Continental Army in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Just a few weeks earlier, Congress had chosen Washington to be the leader of all the American soldiers. He traveled quickly from Philadelphia to Massachusetts to meet his new army. On this summer morning, under a large elm tree, Washington drew his sword and took charge of a group of brave but unorganized farmers, shopkeepers, and neighbors who were ready to fight for freedom.
This was a massive moment because it was the first time all the different colonies had one single leader to unite them. Even though he wasn't "President" yet, this was the day George Washington began the long journey of leading Americans toward independence.
Who Was George Washington? Quick Bio for Kids
George Washington was the 1st President of the United States (1789–1797). He is often called the "Father of His Country" because he led the American people through the war and then helped start the new government.
Washington was a leader known for his character:
- The General: He stayed with his soldiers through freezing winters and difficult battles for eight years.
- The Honest Leader: He was famous for his honesty and for being a man that everyone could trust.
- The First President: He set the example for how every president after him should act, including the tradition of only serving two terms.
- The Farmer: He loved his home at Mount Vernon and was always happy to return to his family and his farm after his work for the country was done.
Washington was very tall and strong, and he was considered one of the best horseback riders of his time!
What Happened on July 3, 1775?
- The Arrival in Cambridge: Washington arrived in Massachusetts to find thousands of soldiers camped out around Boston, waiting for a leader to tell them what to do.
- Under the Washington Elm: Tradition says he stood under a giant elm tree on the Cambridge Common when he officially took command.
- Turning Citizens into Soldiers: Most of the men had never been in a real army before. Washington had to teach them how to march, follow orders, and work together as one team.
- A Long War Ahead: On this day, Washington knew the fight for independence would be very hard, but he committed himself to staying with his men until the job was finished.
Fun Facts About George Washington and July 3 for Kids
- A Huge Crowd: People lined the streets just to get a glimpse of the new General as he rode his horse into town!
- The Washington Elm: For over 100 years, people visited the "Washington Elm" tree in Cambridge to remember this day. Even though the tree is gone now, there is a monument where it once stood.
- No Pay: Just like when he was chosen by Congress, Washington refused to take a salary for being the General. He only asked the government to pay for his travel and supplies.
- His Favorite Horse: During the war, Washington had two favorite horses named Nelson and Blueskin. Nelson was famous for never being afraid of the loud noises of battle!
Why July 3 Is Important in Presidential History
This day shows us how important it is to have a leader who can bring people together. When George Washington took command on July 3, he showed the colonies that they weren't just fighting for their own towns—they were fighting together as one "United" country. It teaches us that being a leader requires patience and the ability to turn a group of individuals into a strong team. July 3 reminds us that great things begin when we find a leader who is willing to serve and stay the course.
What do you think?
- If you were a soldier in 1775, what would you think when you saw General Washington for the first time?
- Do you want to learn more about the horses Washington rode or what life was like in a Revolutionary War camp?
