[Tom D.]

I agree that George Washington was the greatest president and probably the greatest American ever born. I agree that this holiday should be officially called Washington's Birthday, but President Washington was at best a mediocre military leader. The rebels won, but probably in spite of Mr. Washington's military ability rather than because of it.

Of course President Regan was also born in February.

[Marius3188]

Here is a program from the BBC that I always enjoy. In Our Time.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/history/inourtime/inourtime_20040624.shtml

Even the Brits consider the George Washington and the Amer. Rev the most significant event in History.

[G.Mason]

And you?

What will you be remembered for?

Like me, your claim to fame will be mediocrity.

[oh8eleven]

The rebels won, but probably in spite of Mr. Washington's military ability rather than because of it.
Yeah, you're right, General Washington was just lucky. [rolling eyes].

[bill1952]

The rebels won, but probably in spite of Mr. Washington's military ability rather than because of it.

---

I'll have to disagree with that.

Washington saw many things very clearly, and acted upon that vision, much to the chagrin of many of his closest military cohorts.

The crossing of the Delaware was bitterly opposed by some on his staff, and some left the colonial army.
Some even defected to take advantage of British amnesty.

He actually had very little to work with on a logistical level, and that it is on that level that wars, rather than battles, are won. And he did.

Without him we would be British.

[Drawsing]

The rebels won, but probably in spite of Mr. Washington's military ability rather than because of it.

I respectfully disagree. Washington made tactical errors and lost some battles, but he stuck it out. He stayed there out in the field for years writing endless letters to congress pleading for more support and troops while the whole country was about ready to give up...including some members of congress. The troops were deserting, the militia figured their job was over. Washington, with his character and charisma was the rallying point that never quit.