Biography: George Washington was the first child born to his parents, who were mildly wealthy landowners in Virginia. (Biography of George Washington) However, he was the brother of eight brothers and sisters. (Revolutionary War) In his teens, Washington became skilled at farm work and surveying, preferring them to school. In his early twenties and upon the death of his half-brother, George became the owner of his family's lands, but was soon called to serve in the Virginia militia. Washington's early military career was humiliating. He was captured during a battle with the French. Then, after being released, Washington and his army were forced to retreat when they were attacked by the French and Indians. Although George Washington had a rough start in his military profession, he became a great commander of the colonial army during his campaign to gain independence. Results: During Washington's lifetime, he worked in ten government agencies. However, his first venture into politics was when he was elected to the House of Burgesses in Virginia. (Revolutionary War) During his term, he presented a motion to the assembly asking them to refuse to purchase British items. It was in the House that he met Thomas Jefferson, who he would later ask to take over as Secretary of State. George was also instrumental in presiding over a meeting that began the First Continental Congress, a group that elected him as a member. In 1775, Washington was given the position of commander in chief of the Americans when the opposing sides began to fight. At the beginning of this challenge, he didn't have many victories. However, he easily won the Battle of Boston, driving the English away. Washington also triumphed over Hess... middle of paper... Jefferson's life was spent in political positions where he attempted to show Americans the way to a better life. Without Jefferson's influence our country would not have the same power and freedoms we enjoy. For example, he fought to end slavery, but he believed that whites and former slaves could not live together and wanted to send them to their home countries. If he had won this argument, our land would be poorer because of what African American people bring to our diverse communities. Our great nation began by winning its freedom from Great Britain. Thomas Jefferson expanded our land and sent a group of men to explore it. This land purchase created a place for our growing population to relocate. He also looked to our nation's future by founding the University of Virginia and donating his personal collection of books to the Library of Congress when it burned..