George Washington
George Washington believed that the survival of a republic depends upon citizens whose character has been formed for self-government. Long before he led an army or served as the nation’s first president, Washington cultivated habits of discipline, restraint, and moral reflection that shaped his leadership and vision for education.
Key Insight
Washington believed that the survival of a free republic depends upon citizens whose knowledge, character, and discipline have been formed for self-government.
Primary Sources
Primary Sources
To understand Washington’s perspective in his own words, readers can explore his First Annual Address to Congress (1790) and his Farewell Address (1796). In these writings, Washington emphasizes the importance of knowledge, religion, and moral character in sustaining a free society.
Washington’s addresses can be read in full via the Internet Archive.
Read the primary sources:
Companion Resource for Pastors, Teachers, and Parents
For a deeper exploration of Washington’s understanding of character formation—including the role of disciplined habits, moral restraint, and the cultivation of knowledge necessary for responsible citizenship—download the companion brief below.
George Washington on Character, Citizenship, and the Education of a Republic
A short paper examining Washington’s conviction that education must cultivate both knowledge and moral character, preparing citizens to exercise freedom wisely and sustain the institutions of a republic.