America's first president has become an icon, but Washington the man has remained something of a mystery, even today. Already a national hero well before his legendary presidency, George Washington revealed himself not only as a strong leader, but also as a pragmatic, skilled, and modest politician. Here is the full story of the life of George Washington, told with quotes from his voluminous correspondence and accounts by his peers, and accompanied by detailed historical illustrations. David A. Adler brings to life the man behind the great soldier and statesman, and unveils the dignity and humility that were the backbone of the public figure, lauded as "first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his fellow-citizens."