George Washington was the Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War, leading the 13 colonies against Great Britain from 1775 to 1783. He oversaw over 230 battles! Learn how this inspiring leader secured America's freedom.

Imagine leading an army against the most powerful empire in the world when you’ve never actually commanded a HUGE army before! Sound like a crazy adventure?

That’s exactly what happened to George Washington during the American Revolutionary War! This war, which lasted from April 19, 1775, to September 3, 1783, was a huge fight for the 13 American colonies to win their freedom from Great Britain. George Washington was chosen by the Second Continental Congress to be the Commander-in-Chief of the brand-new Continental Army. He led the troops through eight long years of fighting, and his leadership was crucial to the American cause! He’s known today as the “Father of Our Country” partly because of this incredible job!

Finn

Finn says:

"Wow, leading an army for eight whole years against professionals? That takes serious grit! I bet his soldiers really looked up to him, even when things got tough!"

What Was George Washington’s Job in the Revolutionary War?

George Washington’s main job was being the Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army. Think of him as the ultimate team captain! He was appointed to this role on June 15, 1775.

It wasn't easy leading a group of volunteer fighters, or militias, who often didn't have enough shoes, blankets, or even food. Washington spent a lot of time writing letters to the Congress, asking for the supplies his soldiers desperately needed just to survive!

He faced British generals who had years of professional training and armies with the best weapons. Washington had to be super clever to keep his army from being completely wiped out early in the war.

Mind-Blowing Fact!

Before the war, George Washington loved farming and experimenting with new ways to grow crops on his big estate called Mount Vernon in Virginia!

How Many Battles Did Washington Fight in the Revolutionary War?

The Revolutionary War had tons of fighting—over 230 skirmishes and battles in total! General Washington was present for many of the most important ones.

It’s a super interesting fact that even though he led the army to victory, George Washington actually lost more battles than he won during the war! But that’s because he knew the best way to win the *whole war* wasn't just winning every single fight.

8 Years
He led the Continental Army for the entire war (1775-1783).
6 Victories
Key wins he commanded, like Trenton and Yorktown.
17 Battles
Major engagements he was personally present for.
1781 Final Major Battle
The year of the decisive win at Yorktown.

How Did Washington Keep the Army Going?

Washington was a master at keeping his soldiers inspired! He knew that sometimes, just staying in the fight was the real victory.

The Daring Winter Crossing

After some tough losses in New York in 1776, the army needed a huge boost. Washington planned an incredible surprise attack! On Christmas Day, 1776, he led his freezing, tired troops across the icy Delaware River.

This bold move led to quick victories against the German soldiers (called Hessians) fighting for the British at Trenton on December 26, and then again at Princeton in early January 1777!

💡 Did You Know?

General Washington made a really important decision to require his troops to be inoculated against smallpox because the disease actually killed more soldiers than the British did during the war!

🎯 Quick Quiz!

What famous surprise action did George Washington lead on Christmas night, 1776?

A) Sneaking into British forts in Boston.
B) Building a secret navy in Philadelphia.
C) Crossing the icy Delaware River.
D) Marching south to capture Florida.

Who Helped Washington Win the War?

Washington was the leader, but he didn't fight alone! He had a team, and they even got help from other countries. France joined the fight on the American side, sending badly needed money and warships near the end of the war!

  • The French Alliance: France was a huge help with money and military support.
  • Brave Spies: Washington relied on intelligence networks like the Culper Spy Ring to get secret information about the British.
  • Resilient Soldiers: The Continental Army soldiers showed amazing dedication, surviving harsh winters and shortages to keep fighting for their cause.

The ultimate victory came at the Siege of Yorktown in Virginia in 1781. Washington, with the help of his allies, cornered the main British army under General Cornwallis, forcing them to surrender and effectively ending the fighting!

Questions Kids Ask About American History

When did the Revolutionary War start and end?
The American Revolutionary War officially lasted for eight years, beginning on April 19, 1775, and concluding with the Treaty of Paris in 1783.
What was George Washington’s first battle in the war?
George Washington first commanded his troops at the Siege of Boston in 1775, shortly after being appointed commander-in-chief.
What happened after George Washington won the war?
After the war ended in 1783, Washington famously gave up his military power. He later became the unanimous choice to be the very first President of the United States in 1789!

Keep Exploring!

George Washington’s journey from farmer to military hero to the first President is one of the most exciting stories in American History! His leadership kept the dream of independence alive. What other amazing heroes do you want to learn about next?