28
Jun
His Excellency George Washington
Before reading Joseph Ellis’ “His Excellency George Washington” I think the most I knew was that he was the first president (two terms), he was the general in the revolutionary war, he had a wife named Martha, and he had false teeth. American history classes never talk about his except to acknowledge he was there before going back to the constitutional talk. Joseph Ellis’ previous book, “Founding Brothers” made me think there was more there and this book provides. It covers from George Washington’s childhood through his death and shows the influences that led to the decisions he made throughout his life. Like “Founding Brothers” it gives a feel for the time and the people, and makes it feel close rather than like history. If you ever wanted to know more about the man whose name and face is everywhere in this country I recommend this book.