The Life of Washington

By M.L. Weems

Book Overview

The effect of this "single, immortal, and dubious anecdote," and others like it, has made this book one of the most influential in the history of American folklore. Originally published as an eighty-page pamphlet entitled The Life and Memorable Actions of George Washington, it quickly attained immense popularity. In 1806 a so-called fifth edition was published which contained for the first time the tale of George Washington and the cherry tree; the book has survived to this day, although largely on the basis of that episode. This volume follows the text of the ninth (1809) printing, which included all the famous anecdotes. This republication is unique in its detailed commentary on Mason Weems and other biographers of Washington.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0674532511
• ISBN13: 9780674532519
• Release Date: December 1962
• Publisher: Belknap Press
• Length: 264 Pages
• Weight: 0.71 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 5.3" x 8.0"
• Age Range: 18 years and up
• Grade Range: Postsecondary

Customer Reviews

The Legend of the Father Of His Country

This is the source of most of the legends involving the "Father of Our Country." "Parson" Weems tells us about the early years of Washington that not even historians know. How about this famous nugget? "George," said his father, "do you know who killed that beautiful little cherry tree yonder in the garden?" "He bravely cried out, "I can't tell a lie, Pa; you know I can't tell a lie. I did cut it with my hatchet." This legendary book was a favorite of Abraham Lincoln, one of the books he used to teach himself to read and write. A must for any American History buff or scholar. Is it history or legend? You decide. Also recommended: Devil and Daniel Webster; Paul Revere's Ride, and Kolak of the Werebeasts.