George Washington 2

Yellow background. A black and white portrait of George Washington in an oval frame is in the center. At the top of the frame is perched a bald eagle. On either side of the portrait is a flag banner held up by gold star pins. At the bottom of the portrait is a branch of a plant.

George Washington was the first president of the United States, and served in the role from 1789 to 1797. He was Commanding General of the Continental Army and a founding father who helped establish the U.S. Constitution and federal government. The American bald eagle with wings spread at the top of the portrait represents the strength and courage of the United States; it became the national bird in 1782. The laurel garland under the image represents victory and honor. In ancient Rome, a laurel wreath crowned a successful commander. The flag of the newly formed United States surrounds the portrait. A eulogy for George Washington declared, “First in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen.” His image is found in art, national monuments, currency, and souvenirs.