George Washington strongly supported the principle that the military is subordinate to civilian government.

Center for Civic Education

George Washington strongly supported the principle that the military is subordinate to civilian government.

Center for Civic Education

Late in the Revolutionary War, a group of officers planned to march on Congress, demanding their pay. George Washington deftly confronted the officers and thwarted their plans.

Center for Civic Education

George Washington was a courageous and decisive soldier before and during the American Revolution. After independence was secured in 1783, Washington appeared before Congress and publicly resigned his military position, reinforcing the idea of civilian control of American government.

Center for Civic Education

Today we begin a short series on George Washington, who was perhaps the most influential leader in the creation of the American nation.

Center for Civic Education

Although originally opposed to a Bill of Rights, James Madison became its strongest proponent

Center for Civic Education

James Madison was a strong advocate for religious freedom and opposed the establishment of the Anglican church as a state-supported religion in Virginia.

Center for Civic Education

James Madison was a champion of religious freedom, believing that official religions were wrong because such a policy discriminated against the non-favored religions.

Center for Civic Education

James Madison was a slaveholder. Nevertheless, he denounced slavery as harmful for both enslaved people and those who held slaves.

Center for Civic Education

James Madison remained persistent critic of slavery throughout his public career. Nevertheless, benefited from slave labor all his life.

Center for Civic Education