1. One of the purposes of an editorial/commentary is to persuade.  Phyllis Schlafly began her commentary in paragraph 1, “The man who is known to all Americans as ‘first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen,’ gave us much sound advice on how to keep our independence and freedom. George Washington’s advice is part of our American heritage that should be known to all our citizens.”  What do you think of her assertion?  Explain your answer.

2.  What type of man do you think George Washington was (based on his own words and actions)?  List three adjectives of character/personality. Explain why you chose the words you did.

3. George Washington’s home in Virginia, Mt. Vernon, is a historic landmark. It is open for tours, and there is a museum and education center on the grounds. On a page “George Washington and Religion,” on the Mt. Vernon website, the compilers (historians) write:

“When studying the religious beliefs of George Washington, it is difficult to make absolute, concrete conclusions. Depending on the source examined, Washington has been painted in differing lights ranging from a Deist to a believing Christian.”

Phyllis Schlafly wrote in her commentary,

“Washington’s words show that he was a man who believed in asking God’s help in every part of our private and public lives.”

Do you think it is possible to understand George Washington’s religious beliefs by studying his own words and actions, or do you agree with the Mt. Vernon historians who assert, “When studying the religious beliefs of George Washington, it is difficult to make absolute, concrete conclusions. Depending on the source examined, Washington has been painted in differing lights ranging from a Deist to a believing Christian.”?

Explain your answer.