The Seven Years’ War and the American Revolution both serve as touchpoints for teaching about George Washington’s military leadership contributions and the broader impact of these conflicts on the Atlantic World. Washington’s concepts of foreign policy, diplomacy, and war had lasting effects and these perspectives established the civilian authority of the military that still shape our nation’s role on the world stage today.
Within this program, participants will investigate the American experiment of liberty, equality, and self-governance by examining inclusive narratives of women, indigenous peoples, and both free and enslaved individuals.
Past Program Speakers
Lead Scholar - Dr. Sarah J. Purcell, L.F. Parker Professor of History at Grinnell College, Iowa. She is author of Sealed in Blood: War, Sacrifice, and Memory in Revolutionary America.
Adrienne Whaley, Director of Education and Community Outreach at the Museum of the American Revolution.
Matthew Costello, Vice President and Senior Historian at the White House Historical Association and author of The Property of the Nation: George Washington’s Tomb, Mount Vernon, and the Memory of the First President.
Dan Shippey, Founder and Director of The Breed's Hill Institute and Mount Vernon's George Washington character interpreter.
Sample Program Schedule
Participant Testimonials
I loved how art was intertwined through many of the sessions. I gained a new perspective of art and how it can be used in conjunction with other sources. I can't wait to dig into some art in my units on the Revolution and Washington!
The use of non-traditional voices what superb. Starting the program with a land acknowledgement was perfect, while closing the program by honoring native and the enslaved of Mount Vernon will surely be incorporated into my teaching.
Teacher Resources
Looking for ways to teach Washington and the American Revolution? Click the link to access activity suggestions, infographics, and additional resources.