What were George Washington's biggest contributions to American society?

You would be hard pressed to find an individual who had a greater impact on the history of the United States than George Washington. His integrity and mettle earned him the position of the commander of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. The task of defeating the British Empire with a group of undisciplined, untrained, and ill-equipped soldiers seemed like an impossible feat. Washington's steady hand and motivational skills allowed the victory to become a reality. Washington was known as a great motivator and allowed the colonial military to achieve a sense of unity and purpose. After the British left the American colonies, Washington would become instrumental in the development of the republic in the United States.

The United States faced a crisis in its infancy. The Articles of Confederation failed to adequately unify the new nation because it did not grant the federal government enough power. Washington was chosen to be the president of the Constitutional Convention in 1787. After the Constitution was ratified, George Washington was elected as the first president. Washington knew the importance of his actions as the first chief executive. He would be the example for future presidents. He appointed the most capable men to work in his cabinet, even if they did not share his political views. Washington took great care to protect the power of the Congress and the courts. One of the great traditions that Washington established was the idea that a president should only serve two terms. While Washington's popularity could have ensured that he could remain president for life, he decided it was in the best interests of the nation to step aside after two terms.