Charles Willson Peale
George Washington

• How does this portrait of George Washington compare to other images you may have seen of the President? What is the effect of depicting Washington in this way?
  
• Which aspects of this image look posed, arranged, or natural?
  
• What details can you see in the background? How do they add to the story being told about President Washington?
  

Charles Willson Peale portrayed George Washington as a relaxed, yet powerful military leader wearing the blue sash of commander-in-chief of the Continental Army. For many Americans, Washington symbolizes the early history of the United States. However, North America had a long history prior to colonization. Indigenous peoples were here centuries before President Washington took office.

“America” is the product of a complex history of multicultural exchange, reflecting many perspectives, stories, and experiences, which cannot be embodied in a single painting or perspective.

• George Washington took an oath of office during the first inauguration on April 30, 1789, stating that he would "preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States." Why was the oath established as an American tradition for presidents?
• What values and ideas about George Washington and the American republic are presented by this portrait?
• How has George Washington's presidency and personal legacy been evaluated over time?