George Washington commanded the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War.
The Second Continental Congress created the Continental Army on June 14, 1775, soon after fighting began at Lexington and Concord. Congress selected Washington of Virginia as its commander in chief the following day because of his military experience and political standing.
The army brought together soldiers from the thirteen colonies and later states. It was supported by state militias, foreign allies, and the Continental Navy, but those forces were separate organizations. The Continental Army conducted the main land campaigns against British forces.
Washington led the army through difficult years marked by shortages, defeats, and harsh winter camps. Its victory at Yorktown in 1781 helped secure the peace settlement that recognized American independence. The army was largely disbanded after the Treaty of Paris, though a small force remained until the Confederation government was replaced.