George Washington

February 22, 1732 – December 14, 1799

1st President of the United States

Knelt in prayer at Valley Forge and led a nation under God

Biography

American military officer, statesman, and Founding Father who served as the first President of the United States and commander-in-chief of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War.

Faith & Testimony

An Anglican/Episcopalian who frequently referenced Providence and God in his writings and speeches. His personal prayer journal was discovered after his death. He established the tradition of adding 'so help me God' to the presidential oath and attended church regularly.

Sources

George Washington — Wikipedia — Comprehensive biography of the first President
Religious views of George Washington — Wikipedia — Analysis of Washington's Anglican faith and references to Providence
George Washington's Circular to the States (June 8, 1783) — Washington's prayer for the nation: 'I now make it my earnest prayer, that God would... incline the hearts of the Citizens... to entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another'
George Washington and Religion — Mount Vernon's scholarly examination of Washington's Anglican faith, church attendance, and religious references in his writings