Our first president has become an icon, but Washington the man has always remained a mystery, even today. Already a national hero in his early twenties-well before his presidency-George Washington revealed himself not only as a strong leader, but also as a pragmatic, skilled, and modest politician. Here is the full story of the life of George Washington, told with the help of quotes from his voluminous correspondence and accounts from his peers. Adler brings to life the man behind the great soldier and statesman and unveils the dignity and humility that were the backbone of a person whose life has been called "an indispensable study for American youth." Historical illustrations, along with an index, chronology, bibliography, and sources notes are included.