George Washington's Newburgh Address
Manuscript by George Washington, 15 March 1783
Gen. George Washington delivered this address on 15 March 1782 to quell unrest among the officers and soldiers of the Continental Army. In the waning months of the Revolutionary War, when the army was in winter quarters at Newburgh, New York, the long-unpaid officers were nearing revolt. For some time, Congress had remained indifferent to Washington's pleas on behalf of his unpaid men. Alarmed by the growing discontent in the ranks, Washington called a meeting where he read these words, shown here in his own handwriting. Washington urged his men to be loyal and obedient, appealed to their patriotism, and offered his support for their cause. In response the officers unanimously adopted resolutions conveying loyalty to Congress, country, and their commander.
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