Instruction
Answer the following in a well-organized, formal, argumentative/persuasive essay. Be sure to use quotations from the book as evidence to support your thesis. Use past tense throughout your paper and do not use self-reference (no “I” or “me”). Suggested length: 4-5 double-spaced pages.
The argument of British historian Paul Johnson’s short biography of George Washington is contained in the subtitle: The Founding Father. His interpretation is in keeping with the writings of many other scholars, one of whom called Washington “the indispensable man,” saying that without him, there would not be a United States. While some critics have pointed out that Johnson too easily and quickly resolves the contradictions in Washington’s life, nearly all agree that this is a good introduction to the biography of the first president. Based on your reading of this brief book, explain Johnson’s argument: how and why was George Washington America’s founding father? Was he truly indispensable? Why or why not
Explain what caused the American Revolution? Why did some colonists take up arms against their king in 1775-76?