George Washington

George Washington was born on February 11, 1731 in America. He is known in American history as the 'Father of the Country'. For nearly 20 years he guided his country.

In three important ways, Washington helped shape the beginning of the United States. Firstly, he commanded the army that won American independence from Great Britain. Secondly. Washington served as President when the United States Constitution was written. Thirdly, he was elected as the first President of the United States.

When Washington became President there were only 11 states in the Union. By the end of his time in power, there were 16.
He died in 1799 at the age of 67.