He set the standard, period. If you do not understand that, then you are historically ignorant.

smart enough...thank god.

I'd like to take a moment off from my regularly scheduled programming to thank "noorginality" for living up to his name. Not only was I aware of what few facts you gave out, but if you think about it, everybody who was anybody owned slaves in that time, and one of my favorite professors always told me to never apply modern morals to events of the past. Congradulations.

GW got by just fine on average intelligence, both because of his other gifts listed below (charisma, leadership, stamina, integrity) but also thanks to his aide de camp/treasurer/consiglieri, the greatest unsung genius of the American Revolution-Alexander Hamilton.

If you read enough historical accounts of Washington, there is enough evidence to suggest that the General was quite aware of his lack of intellectual pedigree (he wasn't educated like a Jefferson nor the wit of a Franklin or Adams) but what made Washington great wasn't pure scholastic intelligence- he had charisma, leadership, instincts, and a fascinating but simple habit of survival- he lost as many battles as he won. . .also consider his business gifts-he was a Virginia planter who (unlike Jefferson and other appearance-minded gentlemen) didn't manage to fall into debt with English companies. . .

once traded a slave for alcohol. yes, a slave owner. and a member of the elite who simply wanted to continue a system that would serve people who were just like him. white, male, and rich. slave owners at that.

I must thank shahadaati for sending this suggestion. I said before, and I repeat: No George Washington, no USA. He was the heart and soul of the Revolution--a truly remarkable man.