George Washington was appointed commander in chief of the Continental Army in 1775.
The Second Continental Congress made the appointment on June 19, 1775, shortly after fighting began at Lexington and Concord. Washington, a Virginia planter and veteran of the French and Indian War, had represented Virginia in Congress and appeared in military uniform, signaling his readiness to serve.
Congress formally commissioned him on June 19, and he took command near Boston in July. He faced major challenges, including shortages of weapons, money, trained soldiers, and supplies. His army also consisted of units from colonies with different political interests.
Washington remained commander through the Revolutionary War and led the army during the decisive Yorktown campaign. After the war, he resigned his commission to Congress in 1783, a gesture that strengthened the tradition of civilian control over the military. He later became the first president of the United States.