The Return of George Washington: 1783-1789

Written by:
Edward J. Larson
Narrated by:
Mark Bramhall

Unabridged Audiobook

Ratings
Book
3
Narrator
1
Release Date
October 2014
Duration
11 hours 8 minutes
Summary
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

'An elegantly written account of leadership at the most pivotal moment in American history' (Philadelphia Inquirer): Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Edward J. Larson reveals how George Washington saved the United States by coming out of retirement to lead the Constitutional Convention and serve as our first president.

After leading the Continental Army to victory in the Revolutionary War, George Washington shocked the world: he retired. In December 1783, General Washington, the most powerful man in the country, stepped down as Commander in Chief and returned to private life at Mount Vernon. Yet as Washington contentedly grew his estate, the fledgling American experiment floundered. Under the Articles of Confederation, the weak central government was unable to raise revenue to pay its debts or reach a consensus on national policy. The states bickered and grew apart. When a Constitutional Convention was established to address these problems, its chances of success were slim. Jefferson, Madison, and the other Founding Fathers realized that only one man could unite the fractious states: George Washington. Reluctant, but duty-bound, Washington rode to Philadelphia in the summer of 1787 to preside over the Convention.

Although Washington is often overlooked in most accounts of the period, this masterful new history from Pulitzer Prize-winner Edward J. Larson brilliantly uncovers Washington’s vital role in shaping the Convention—and shows how it was only with Washington’s support and his willingness to serve as President that the states were brought together and ratified the Constitution, thereby saving the country.
Browse By Category
Reviews
Profile Avatar
LaMarr Anderson

What an interesting and well read book! The book brings to life a critical 6-year period of our Nation's founding that I don't recall having really thought about or having been learned about before. Should be read by all our national political leaders today....they would recognize the environment and how they can accomplish 'miracles' today regardless. Loved the "1st person" approach of the narrator when quoting the words of our founders.

1 book added to cart
Subtotal
$27.99
View Cart