4 George Washington_ The First President（2.9）

GEORGE WASHINGTON The First President

In 1776, colonists in America declared independence from Britain. The two sides fought a war called the American Revolution.

George Washington was the general who led the American army. He was brave, honest, and fair. The war lasted eight years. The Americans finally won.

America was a new country! But who would lead it? Everyone knew the answer: George Washington, of course. Should he be a king? Should he be a president?

But George shocked everyone. He did not want to be a king. He did not want to be a president. "I retire," he said.

In England, King George was shocked. In France, King Louis was shocked.