The Rise of George Washington

"In this clip, historian and author Bernard Bailyn talks about the role George Washington played in the growth and development of the early United States. Professor Bailyn attributes much of Washington's success, both on the battlefield and as President, to his personality. "He was a person of great dignity and presence," Professor Bailyn explains. With President Washington at the helm, the Executive Branch acquired a credibility and power that might not have otherwise been possible."