Tag Archives: George Washington

Today In History: May 25, 1787 “how thirteen independent states could share a government of tripartite powers”

Posted on May 25, 2008 by sheila

May 25, 1787: the Constitutional Convention (although that would only be its name later; at the time it was called the “Federal Convention”) got underway. Most of the delegates had arrived, by that time, from their far-flung states, and May … Continue reading →

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Happy Birthday to Sharon’s Dead Boyfriend, George Washington

Posted on February 22, 2008 by sheila

… who was born on this day in 1732. Thomas Jefferson on George Washington: The moderation and virtue of a single character probably prevented this Revolution from being closed, as most others have been, by a subversion of that liberty … Continue reading →

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2007 Books Read

Posted on December 31, 2007 by sheila

(in the order in which I finished them, understanding that very often I read many books at the same time). I count re-read books, by the way. I’ll include links to any posts or book excerpts I might have done … Continue reading →

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Today in History: December 14, 1799

Posted on December 14, 2007 by sheila

George Washington died on December 14, 1799. Here is a mish-mash of quotes, excerpts, etc. Gouverneur Morris said, upon the death of this great man: It is a question, previous to the first meeting, what course shall be pursued. Men … Continue reading →

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That Snowball Fight

Posted on December 5, 2007 by sheila

Israel Trask’s eyewitness account. Famous story, obviously – one I never get tired of.

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Culture Snapshots

Posted on October 29, 2007 by sheila

— Today is finally here. I thought it would never arrive. Britney’s new album is now out. I am DYING to hear it. I am not kidding. — Still working on Bleak House. I adore it, and actually shed tears … Continue reading →

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Today in history: October 19, 1781

Posted on October 19, 2007 by sheila

The surrender at Yorktown, which ended the American Revolutionary War … Day before: General Lord Charles Cornwallis to General George Washington, October 18, 1781 I agree to open a treaty of capitulation upon the basis of the garrisons of York … Continue reading →

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Lying

Posted on May 30, 2007 by sheila

I have a higher and greater standard of principle [than George Washington]. Washington could not lie. I can lie but I won’t. — Mark Twain, 1871

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Today in history: March 4, 1789

Posted on March 4, 2007 by sheila

The US Constitution went into effect – and it was also chosen as the Inauguration Day for incoming presidents, which it was until the 20th century. George Washington’s first inaugural was actually on April 30, for various reasons – but … Continue reading →

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Gouverneur Morris: “We the people …”

Posted on January 23, 2007 by sheila

I love the many anecdotes about this man – he seems quite likable, and yet also intimidating (the intellect, the fearlessness). Just came across a quote in a book I’m reading and it made me laugh. Morris, despite his wooden … Continue reading →

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