The George Washington Papers at the Library of Congress

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Washington passing the Delaware, evening previous to the Battle of Trenton, Dec. 25th, 1776 George Washington on horseback looking back at troops crossing the Delaware River. Engraving by George S. Lang from Prints and Photographs Division, Library of Congress. Philadelphia: Samuel Augustus Mitchell, 1825. Reproduction #: (b&w) LC-USZ62-61047

1774

July 6-18, attends meetings in Alexandria, Virginia, which address the growing conflict between the Colonies and Parliament. Washington co-authors with George Mason the Fairfax County Resolves, which protest the British "Intolerable Acts"--punitive legislation passed by the British in the wake of the December 16th, 1773, Boston Tea Party. The Fairfax Resolves call for non-importation of British goods, support for Boston, and the meeting of a Continental Congress.

July 18, the Resolves are presented to the public at the Fairfax County Courthouse. Fairfax Resolves

September 5 - October 26, the First Continental Congress meets in Philadelphia. Washington serves as a delegate from Virginia.

October 9, while attending the First Continental Congress, Washington responds to a letter from Captain Robert Mackenzie, then in Boston. Mackenzie, a fellow Virginia officer, criticizes the behavior of the city's rebellious inhabitants. Washington sharply disagrees and defends the actions of Boston's patriots. Yet, like many members of Congress who still hope for reconciliation, Washington writes that no "thinking man in all North America," wishes "to set up for independency." George Washington to Robert Mackenzie, October 9, 1774