Abstract
George Washington was a leader during the American Revolution, which was a time of great instability, and required a leader such as him to lead the American colonies to victory and stability. Washington was a visionary leader with a clear, far-reaching vision for his cause, and he created a culture to make the realization of his vision possible. He was a solid foundation to which his followers could turn for direction and hope. Washington as a visionary leader was exactly the leader that was needed during his era, but everything that made him a great leader during his time is just as relevant today. He is a great example of a historical leader that is worth studying and learning from.
George Washington’s Era
The Revolutionary War occurred during an era of revolution in the late 1700s; not only were the American colonies engaging in a revolution, but it was shortly followed by the French Revolution as well as the Haitian Revolution. This era of revolution was brought about by the Age of Enlightenment. The Enlightenment featured the widespread acceptance of such concepts as liberty, progress, toleration, constitutional government, and many more principles that would guide the masses into rising against established leaders, thus the whole concept of leadership would be redefined.
With the American colonies rebelling against England, this time period was very unstable for the colonies, constantly teetering on the edge of collapse, to the point that it took many great leaders to prevent that collapse. The Founding Fathers filled that role, and chief among them was George Washington. Being a man of enlightenment, George Washington used his vision for his cause, respect for his followers and their discipline, and his exemplary character and conviction to lead his new nation (Geneva College, 2017).
Relevance of Washington’s Theories During the Era of Revolution
Washington is best described as a visionary leader. He had a very clear and far-reaching goal for his cause. He worked to create an organizational culture that could carry out that goal, and he was able to inspire people to join his pursuit of that vision. His vision was for a self-governing constitutional republic that would be chosen by the people (Stazesky, 2000). Washington was a strict disciplinarian, saying, “Discipline is the soul of an army. It makes small numbers formidable; procures success to the weak, and esteem to all.” (Washington, 1757). This culture of discipline was the only way for the American army to achieve victory against a better equipped, more numerous British army. Even though he was less educated than most of his fellow Founding Fathers, he was the one chosen to lead the Continental Army, then was elected to be the first President of the United States of America; a testament to his ability to inspire people to follow him (Stazesky, 2000).
The Relevance of His Ideas in this Current Era and the Connection of the Theory Between the Two Eras
In today’s era, some of Washington’s leadership principles would undoubtedly need revision. His strict disciplinary style might have been necessary to keep the army on its feet and able to contend with a global superpower, but such punishments as execution for desertion, while commonplace in the 1700s, is not palatable in today’s society.
Leaders in more recent history and even today continue to pursue far-reaching visions and use them to inspire their followers. Whether it was Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision of a future of unity, freedom, equality and “beloved community” or Elon Musk’s vision of a high-tech future, people today still search for a visionary leader to follow and provide them with hope.
An inspirational leader will always draw followers, regardless of time period. Whether it is by using inspiring words and oration like President Barack Obama or by leading by example like a football player who stays late to get extra practice, this kind of leadership will always be relevant.
Reflections on Current Society and Washington’s Leadership
George Washington’s principles of leadership will never be obsoleted. He is an example of a historical figure that shines brighter as more of his life is revealed. His overall dedication to his cause is extremely admirable and perhaps his greatest act as President of the United States was to gracefully step down and transfer power so that the nation would be able to continue and thrive without him. Selflessness and humility are two unexpected traits from a man who was revered by some of the greatest people of his generation (Constitutional Rights Foundation, 1984).
While Washington’s methods of maintaining discipline may be outdated, maintaining good order and discipline is still a key to a successful organization and paramount in establishing a culture of respect. His vision of a constitutional republic was realized during his life and has continued since, but he would undoubtedly have new goals and ambitions to accomplish if he were alive today. Being able to envision a better future and make a plan to achieve that goal is a good start, but in addition, Washington had the ability to execute that plan. His ability to inspire people and lead them to victory is what makes him a great example and a leader worth studying.
References
Constitutional Rights Foundation. (1984). Bill of Rights in Action. Constitutional Rights Foundation.
Retrieved January 24, 2023, from https://www.crf-usa.org/bill-of-rights-in-action/bria-1-1-a-what-made-george-washington-a-great-leader.html.
Geneva College. (2017, February 10). What Made George Washington Such a Great Leader. Geneva
College. Retrieved January 24, 2023, from https://www.geneva.edu/blog/uncategorized/washington-leadership Stazesky, R. C. (2000, February 22). George Washington, Genius in Leadership. Washington Papers.
Retrieved January 24, 2023, from https://washingtonpapers.org/resources/articles/george-washington-genius-in-leadership/
Washington, G. (1757, July 29). Instructions to Company Captains, 29 July 1757. Vonore, Tennessee; Fort Loudoun.