Summary of Bruce Catton's American Heritage History of the Presidents Washington to Van Buren

Please note: This is a companion version & not the original book. Sample Book Insights: #1 Because of the political slander and bile that marred Washington’s two administrations, the first president soon came to be regarded as a demigod. #2 George Washington was born in 1732, the first President of the United States. He was taught by his family and friends, and he was a man of hands rather than brains. He was, however, extremely practical. #3 George Washington was a very careful person, and he always followed the copybook ethic. He was very tall and lanky, with gray-blue eyes and brown hair. He was a magnificent horseman, and he knew every foot of land he owned. #4 Washington’s trip to the Ohio Valley in 1754 was to secure the site of the Ohio Company’s fort, which was being built at the junction of the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers. He learned that the site had fallen to the French, and that enemy troops were advancing toward him in strength. He surrendered, and signed a written admission that he had assassinated Jumonville.