The Second Continental Congress appointed George Washington commander of the Continental Army during the founding era celebrated by America250. Congress made the appointment on June 15, 1775, soon after the Revolutionary War began.
Washington was a delegate from Virginia and had military experience from the French and Indian War. Congress chose him over other possible commanders partly because selecting a Virginian helped give the resistance a more unified, intercolonial character. He accepted the position without taking a salary, requesting only reimbursement for expenses.
Washington’s army faced major difficulties, including shortages of food, weapons, clothing, and trained soldiers. The force depended heavily on short-term enlistments and militia support. Despite early defeats, Washington kept the army in the field and led the campaigns that eventually helped secure American independence.
He remained commander in chief until the war ended, resigning his commission in 1783. That resignation became an important example of civilian authority over the military. Washington later served as the first president under the Constitution, but his America250-era role was as commander of the revolutionary army.