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Suited to Lead: George Washington

Digital Library

Created on February 5, 2025

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Portrait of George Washington

Date: 1784 Creator: Charles Wilson Peale Medium: Oil on Canvas

This portrait of George Washington, painted after he became the President of the United States, depicts him in an outfit similar to his suit of regimentals commissioned in 1789. In this widely recognized depiction, Washington wears a suit of blue trimmed with buff. The epaulets were worn as an indication of his rank, one on each shoulder.

Photo © President and Fellows of Harvard College

George Washington's Epaulets

Date: 1779Creator: UnknownMedium: Leather, cloth, gilding

Epaulets like these served as visual symbols of military rank, indicating order and authority within the Continental Army. For Washington, these decorative shoulder pieces were just one feature of military dress within a system of uniform regulations designed to project professionalism. Such attention to appearance was seen as essential by American leaders for establishing legitimacy for the emerging nation and the new national government.

National Musuem of American History, Smithsonian Institution

Uniform of George Washington

Date: 1789Creator: Unknown Medium: Wool, metal

This suit of regimentals, a term referring to a military uniform specific to a particular regiment, features a blue coat and buff-colored waistcoat and breeches. These uniforms often incorporated colors or embellishments that set them apart from other units. The collar, cuffs, and lapels are buff colored, which represented New York and New Jersey during the Revolutionary War. The suit is made of wool, well-suited to the harsh winters of the Northeast.

National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution