Read the excerpt from America's First President: George Washington:
The American Revolutionary War
(6) Washington's military and political involvement did not end after the French and Indian War. Upon returning to Mt. Vernon, he began to take political stands against the British Parliament. He was particularly against the rising taxes being imposed on American colonists. Washington believed that it was time for the colonists to proclaim independence from England. In 1775, he was declared commander in chief of the Continental Army because of his experience and strong patriotism. Throughout the eight-year war, Washington's leadership strengths were evident. He was able to keep his army together despite the fact that they were poorly trained and lacked supplies. He did this by giving the troops direction and motivation. Toward the end of the Revolutionary War, Washington's troops captured a British general. This ultimately ended the war, and Americans gained independence. This event also led to Washington being declared a national hero.
The Road to the Presidency
(7) Years after the war, Washington knew that the structure of government was not working. States were fighting over boundaries and refusing to help pay off the debt that the nation had developed during the war. Washington knew that something had to be done. In 1786, after a major clash erupted in Massachusetts, Congress decided that a convention be held in Philadelphia. In 1787, Washington was asked to attend the Constitutional Convention. Congress wanted him to give input on drafting the new constitution. It was during this convention that the constitutional amendments were developed. It also inspired discussion about who the leader of the nation should be.
(8) Washington's impressive leadership led the delegates to believe that he was by far the most qualified for the position. On January 7, 1789, he unanimously won the leadership election. George Washington had become the first president of the United States.
Select the statement that explains how George Washington's strong leadership during the American Revolutionary War resulted in him becoming president. (2 points)
Answer choices
Washington knew something had to be done about states fighting and refusing to help pay off war debt.
Washington was particularly against the rising taxes being imposed on American colonists by the British.
Washington's experience and strong patriotism helped him guide and motivate his troops in order to win the war.
Washington's input at the Constitutional Convention showed his intelligence about matters important to the country.
