How George Washington Became the ONLY 6-Star General

Jeremy Ray, Manager of History Interpretation at George Washington's Mount Vernon explains how George Washington has remained our highest ranking officer in the American Army.
Learn more about Washington during the war: www.mountvernon...

[@meygekon]

George Washington - Gains 6 stars King George III - Loses 13 stars

[@samsignorelli]

Well played

[@patrickmcshane7658]

Yes

[@joeygargiulo695]

And counting, up to 50 now!

[@tessieradl2839]

I’m currently to 100 points for George Washington

[@shawncheng404]

all empire

[@78.BANDIT]

One of the things I like most about Washington is he was a humble man. He knew he wasn't perfect but tried to set a good example. He also knew when to walk away after serving 2 terms as President. He was a true example of a leader. Even truning down becoming KING. That is the sign of a Great man.

[@tballstaedt7807]

Ha! Actual history tells another story. I love my country and its history but Washington the man was 90% legend and 10% luck.

[@annlorenz6723]

very well said!

[@78.BANDIT]

@@tballstaedt7807 Yes I agree with you. Washington himself said most of what he did was with the help of GOD and Luck. He also said he DIDN'T want to be look at as a God figure or to be praised as a perfect man. But sadly look what we did. But let's be real. In all countries history don't we all want Great leaders to be more then human? Thank you my friend and God bless.

[@joelrodriguez9661]

We recognize Washington because he was a man of honor and integrity. He could have made himself the young nations sovereign after the revolution. But he resigned his commission as commander in chief. He could have held the office of president for more than his two terms. But he set the precedent for presidential tenure. Instead of holding on to power for as long as he could he showed the young nation that power should be relinquished.

[@howardbaxter2514]

Many scholars consider Washington to have been the most fit to lead America during our early years. Not only was he able to bring strength to the Presidential position, as many people respected him, he also unified both the North and South both before and after the Revolutionary War because he was from Virginia. If it wasn’t for George Washington, the Revolutionary War would have been lost as the south would not have gotten involved, and strongest leaders in America weren’t as powerful as George Washington.

[@bdbailey9225]

He's my hero. What a fabulous individual! Only man I know of in history to voluntarily step down from power in a precedent showing once again how he placed duty and honor above his personal glory and desires. But this video has one thing wrong. Washington is NOT the only 6 star general. WW1 General Pershing was given 6 stars to make him equal to the English and French Marshals.

[@oriancunningham]

Washington took a lot of inspiration from Cincinnatus, Washington was even the First President of the Society of Cincinnatus.

[@bdbailey9225]

Cincinnatus is another sterling example of an heroic citizen, for sure.

[@davidich3537]

Hero?? A well placed puppet from he's unknown general

[@Todestrieb21]

Diocletian.

[@bryantzerrato8255]

and massed wealth through the exploitation of slaves..what a guy

[@euphegenia]

I was just blown away by Washington’s humility in Ron Chernow’s magnificent biography of George Washington. His farewell address to his officers at Fraunces Tavern in New York City and his resigning of his commission at Annapolis were truly awesome.

[@Tj-ho2fs]

David McCullough said there were several things that made Washington great, and two of the greatest were that he never gave up, and that he learned from his mistakes. For what it’s worth, my favorite film portrayal of Washington is by David Morse in HBO’s series John Adams.

[@danwallach8826]

David Morse's was a great portrayal. I also really like Jeff Daniels in "The Crossing."

[@markbrittain1324]

George Washington was the greatest leader and President. Well explained.

[@robertisham5279]

Yep the father of our country. Had it not been for him we'd just be another British colony.

[@dariowiter3078]

🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 🗽🗽🗽🗽🗽 👏👏👏👏👏 👍👍👍👍👍 😁😁😁😁😁

[@ricksturgis6403]

Insert: *who owned slaves and did not free them until his wife‘s death.

[@jacehbrickfilms5233]

Rick Sturgis you act as if it wasn’t the norm to own slaves in the 18th century

[@ricksturgis6403]

@@jacehbrickfilms5233 I know it is that's why I would not reduce his life's work to him being a slaveholder. Still, the age of enlightenment was already going on for a while and for such a learned and intelligent man like Washington, one can expect him to at least show scrupels and reject slavery for the inherent evil that it is.

[@notsosilentmajority1]

Very informative and enjoyable. At one point in the video I thought the title was going to end up being click bait, thankfully it wasn't. There are so many tidbits of history that so few of us know about. Thank you for sharing a wonderful piece of history. Well done.

[@mountvernon]

Hi everyone, here is an explanation about why Pershing is not considered a 6-star general. Pershing was promoted (via Congress, the only body with the authority to do so) to General of the Armies in 1919. At that time, it gave Pershing the highest command rank. Since the highest ranking generals were Lt. Generals (3 stars) it effectively made Pershing a 4 star. It is important to note, Pershing’s 4 Gold Stars were purely decorative that he chose to wear, Congress never authorized that insignia as official. Pershing died in 1948, after WWII, and while his title was a higher rank than the 5 star generals of WWII, his rank could not increase because he was no longer in the Army, retiring in 1921. In the case of George Washington, his rank is bestowed upon him posthumously by Congress with the intention of ceremonially making him the highest ranking General. The highest insignia ever used in active duty was 5 stars in WWII, therefore conjecturally making George Washington a 6 star. Pershing’s rank was bestowed by Congress while he was active duty to make him the highest ranking official in the moment. Though his title is the same, his ranking does not supersede those that followed him. You can read up more on the subject here: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/General_of_the_Armies#John_Pershing

[@STho205]

George Washington's Mount Vernon. Well said!

[@Mark-qm9nr]

I disagree. Pershing is considered a six star general. The rank of General of the Armies of the United States was created exclusively for him by Congress after the First World War. In 1944 when the first 4 star military officers officers were promoted to 5 star rank (Leahy, Marshall, etc.) Secretary of War Stimson was quizzed by reporters about Pershing (he was still alive). Stimson said that the War Department considered Pershing to out rank all other military officers in the United States, both Army and Navy. Pershing was given permission by Congress to design his own insignia, being a modest man he simply wore 4 gold stars instead of 4 silver ones. He could have worn 7 stars if he wanted to! Washington is the greatest American who ever lived, however, Pershing was a hero as well. Washington was only promoted to General of the Armies in 1976 by Congress and because his promotion was back dated he is the senior military officer of this country, and always will be. I've visited Pershing's grave in Arlington. His tombstone reads"General of the Armies". Why don't you pay a visit, perhaps you'll learn something.

[@2410jrod]

However Washington wasn’t General to f the Armies per se. He was given it honorary in 1976. You have to adjust that rank with the times. In Washington’s time no Presidential or Constitution. Whereas Pershing there was alive and well I might add. Although Washington’s situation was more dire by comparison when it comes their situation when they received command.

[@808scott]

If I may humbly add my .o2, Ulysses S. Grant was recently bestowed the title of General of the Armies with the provision that his precedence and standing is equal to General Pershing from 1919. So, I believe that solidifies your explanation of General Washington being our only Six-Star ranking official.

[@roberthudson1959]

Incorrect. Washington, Pershing, and Grant have the same rank, and Admiral of the Navy George Dewey has an equivalent one. When Congress created the rank of General of the Armies for Pershing, that necessitated the creation of a new insignia for that rank. Pershing retired from active duty in 1924, not 1921, but there are numerous examples of officers whose rank changed in retirement. General of the Air Force Arnold was in the Army for his entire active duty career, and Admiral John S. McCain, Sr. is just one of many officers who were promoted posthumously.

[@michaelcasey5155]

Washington....”1st in peace ...1st in war...1st in the hearts of his countrymen “.

[@HaiLHaiLHaiLo]

George Washington was the greatest patriot, general, and American. Without him America doesn't exist as we know it.

[@paulgreen6903]

I have been watching as many story s about how the EARLY UNITED STATES of AMERICAN was created. All the information was very easy to under stand, and was very enjoyable. To be an AMERICAN, is some thing to be very proud off. Keep up the good work. Your friend from the north...... CANADA...........GOD BLESS THE UNITED STATES of AMERICA.

[@obi0914]

I would argue that you think your separate from this great experiment? The North American Continent has had its dictators, even the Mexicans fought of their overlords. We are brothers and sisters of this great experiment known as democracy, kings, dictators and rulers have always ruled and yet we say there is a different way, we are one of the same my friend.

[@carterwinslow6744]

@@obi0914 You can be a Democracy and still have a Monarchy. Its called a Constitutional Monarchy. And the US has committed far more crimes in 200 years than most of the longest lasting Monarchies in Europe did for twice that time. Don't get me wrong, I love America. I also wish America to remain a Republic. I also understand the reasoning for the Republic... We needed to be distinct from Britain and also ensure our freedom. However, Constitutional Monarchy that Germany had before WWI, that Austria had before WWI, that Britain still has (even though the Queen is weakened, she still exercises her powers enshrined in British Common law behind closed doors, and has the authority to call for new elections as well as other rights)... is not a bad system at all, and America should not be fighting to end it. Monarchs ensure that no politician can ever reach the highest level of government, ensuring that no one, ever can claim absolute power. This prevents the rise of a would be Hitler or Oswald Mosley (British Union of Fascist). Moreover, the Monarch is in turn, kept in check by Parliament, the Courts and the People, who in almost all, if not all, Monarchies of Europe by the late 19th Century, exercised considerable power given to them by a Constitution. This ensures that the threat from tyranny is much reduced. Moreover, Monarchs typically are guided by traditions such as duty to the state, to the people, and to God. This ensures that even if they do have an agenda, this agenda is influenced by their parents who taught them noble virtues. This means that the chances you get someone who wants the Presidency purely for their own ambitions, and generally will say or do anything to achieve it, does not become head executive. Monarchs also try not to favour any political party in Parliament, because it would lose them public support, and votes on things such as titles. Queen Victoria learned this the hard way when she said "I despise Tories (Conservatives) more than insects and turtle soup". When the Tories came to power, she asked her husband be granted the title of King Consort. Parliament rejected it, and she learned she had to be more reserved in her ideology. She eventually became friends with Prime Ministers of both Parties and took an active role in the welfare of her people. This tenancy to greater non-partisanship, allows them as an executive to get leaders of rival factions on board to solve the issues facing the nation. If America had a Monarch, they might have hosted talks to end the Government Shutdown impasse, and tried to resolve partisan bickering instead of instigating it. Anyways, Constitutional Monarchy and Republics can go hand in hand, and be allied ideologies. America should not be imposing Republicanism on Europe. If various countries in Europe want a Republic, fine. But because of Woodrow Wilson's doctrines, Republics were forced first on the Central Powers, and then the rest of Europe after the Second World War. There is still a lot of resentment today in Europe over that fact, and it also lead to the rise of Fascism. Moreover, as I mentioned, Constitutional Monarchies are not even a threat to Democracy.

[@austinbosh7402]

@@carterwinslow6744 First of all, what's so wrong with making Germany and the countries that made up Austria-Hungary republics after WW1? The republics succeeded, they were just held back from debt (caused by the British and French *NOT* the U.S.). The only thing that the U.S. did to harm Germany was the Great Depression but that wasn't America's fault. Secondly, America didn't force any republics on Europe except for Germany and Italy if I remember correctly. That wasn't a bad thing either, unless you admired Hitler or Mussolini that is. Thirdly, the U.S. did not contribute to the rise of Fascism. That was purely Britain and France as I stated before when I said Britain and France severely weakened Germany with the Treaty of Versailles. Lastly, I could care less for the crimes America has done. I'm just glad I'm living in the world's strongest super power. I won't ever have to worry about war reaching main land America or about us losing a war. I won't have to worry about starvation or extreme taxes *Cough* Canada *Cough* . I won't have to worry about not getting a proper education or getting paid adequate money. I will be able to choose my job and my future. Freedom. It's what makes America great. I'm not wrong in saying that either, America gives the most freedom to its citizens out of every other country.

[@carterwinslow6744]

Austin Bosh did the Republics actually succeed? No... Austria is still plagued with frequent political violence to this day. There is constant massive instability and in some other former Habsburg realms, people get into first fights in Parliament or in one countries case, the opposition releases tear gas to stop a vote. Also.... the allies did force a republic on all of these countries and never even asked for a vote. When Hungary tried to restore the monarchy, twice, the western allies threatened invasion and Hungary’s “immanent and complete destruction” whatever that meant. Moreover, 22% of people in this region want a return of the monarchy... so in the interest of actual democracy let’s have a discussion in this region and HAVE a VOTE. If democrats love democracy so much let’s have a debate.

[@austinbosh7402]

@@carterwinslow6744 You can be a " successful " country and still be plagued with internal turmoil. Examples are France, China, and the U.S.. Couldn't find any sources about Hungary trying to restore its Monarchy post WW2. Just because 22% of the population favors a return to the Monarchy doesn't mean 100% of the population will also agree. Also, you don't have to be a Democrat to favor Democracies. You could be a Republican like myself.

[@wiskasIO]

Rightfully deserved honor. I can't wait to start teaching my son American History.

[@lorenheard2561]

I will always love and admire George Washington.

[@mikehunt132]

All men should strive to be like George Washington

[@cw4136]

@@loveshack6880 it was not uncommon for people to owe slaves back then.in fact It was illegal in George Washington state to release slaves. It wasnt until much later that Thomas Jefferson tried to end that law, but he did fail. Regardless when Washington died he emancipated all his slaves. Which was very uncommon at the time.

[@IanP1963]

@@cw4136 So he was a precursor to Abe Lincoln then ???????

[@nathandei1674]

So go mistreat black people?

[@carlhicksjr8401]

And that, boys and girls, is why George Washington's serial number is 'RA0001' In the system of Army officer serial numbers from 1935-1955, the RA stood for 'Regular Army', indicating that the officer was a career officer; the first digit was the Army Corps [group of states] area where the officer was recruited from, Washington is considered above mere State boundaries; and the last two digits '01' indicating that he was the first officer commissioned directly by that the US government, that government being the Second Continental Congress. In the aftermath of War One, General John Pershing was promoted to 'General of the Army', five star rank. At the same time General George Washington was 'promoted' to the ranks of 'General of the Armies', plural, to leave no doubt who the senior-most professional officer in the United States was. The only five-star to ever have a problem with that was, predictably, General Douglas MacArthur. When he was promoted to five-star rank, he commented how privileged he felt to be promoted to the same rank as George Washington. A member of the press had to point out to Dugout Doug that that he was still junior to Washington, as Washington held 'six-star' rank. The only other officer to ever have title of the rank of 'General of the Armies' was Lt. Gen. U.S. Grant, and that was only the description of his command and responsibility, not his personal rank. [Yeah, I know. Historians are such picky buggers, ain't we?]

[@ariswitty99]

In 1919 Pershing was promoted to General of the Armies, which at the time was indicated by four gold stars. When it came time during WW2 for the rank of general of the army to be issued as the five star rank, Pershing was still alive though retired. To make things simple Congress simply decided that Pershing's rank would outrank the five star rank of general of the army. It wouldn't be until 1976 where Washington would be posthumously promoted by congress to the rank of General of the Armies, and that his rank would be senior to Pershing's rank of the same name.

[@ariswitty99]

Also Grant never held the rank of General of the Armies, he held General of the Army, which at the time was a 4 star rank

[@tantoismailgoldstein6279]

@@ariswitty99 umm it was a three star tank then.

[@ariswitty99]

@@tantoismailgoldstein6279 Grant's insignia for general of the Army showed four stars. Sherman's showed two stars with the seal of the US in the center

[@grantorino2325]

Black Jack Pershing was "General of the Armies of the United States" since 1919. George Washington was, as part of our country's bicentennial, also promoted to that rank in 1976 (retroactive to 1776), so, by time-in-grade, he does outrank Pershing. Both individuals, however, have the same rank. "General of the Army" is a lower rank bestowed on Douglas MacArthur, Ike Eisenhower, George Marshall, Omar Bradley, and Hap Arnold (the last of whom was also the first and only "General of the Air Force").

[@usmctate]

Douglas MacArthur was appointed as General of the Army in WWII. He had five star insignias on his uniform. To say that was never approved is inaccurate.

[@mondaysinsanity8193]

5 star general is used only in times of war it signifies a "general of the armies" as in general of all allied armies basically similar too how admiral nimitz was admiral if the entire allied pacific fleet

[@MarcillaSmith]

5 stars = Genral of the Arm- _y_ (singular), a rank distinct from General of the Arm- _ies_ (plural)

[@koiya7900]

Monday Insanity Don’t forget Eisenhower

[@mikemike8623]

Five-star generals are never retired they are general of the army singular five-star generals of World War II were Eisenhower Bradley and MacArthur with Bradley being the longest living

[@black10872]

@@mondaysinsanity8193 US five star is equal to FIELD MARSHAL, MARSHAL, AIR CHIEF MARSHAL, and ADMIRAL OF THE FLEET (US NAVY FLEET ADMIRAL). And promoting Eisenhower to five stars was meant to be equal to British Field Marshals that outranked him. Promoting Eisenhower to five stars also meant that General Marshall in DC had to be promoted since Marshall was the Army Chief of Staff aka "Commander In Chief" aka most senior general in the army at the time. Basically once a flag officer is promoted, and not part of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Then all the top service chiefs got to be promoted because a field flag officer cannot out rank the service chiefs at headquarters. However, the top service chiefs will always out rank the other flag officers.

[@johnrodriguez7742]

All Hail to George Washington: General of The Armies and President of The United States!!🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🦅🗽⚔️🔫

[@tessieradl2839]

John Rodriguez maybe

[@engineergaming5989]

Why did you put a water pistol after the crossed swords?

[@LNTunes1010]

On tv, when I see a clip of Donald Trump screaming out to his audience that he is the greatest president in America’s history. At first, I looked passed it as everyone has a brain fart once in awhile but then Trump frequently said it at different venues. It has become a source of a head pain for me now. Nothing comes from nothing. Trump is no where near George Washington’s quality of spirit, statesmanship, and action.

[@anunknownentity1637]

@@LNTunes1010 Trump is a pretty good president though. I'm pretty sure Washington would prefer him to many others.

[@LNTunes1010]

Austin Smith LoL 😂. I needed a good laugh. Thx.

[@DukeLitoAurelius]

Nicely done, Jeremy! This was exactly the kind of history I thrive on.

[@GlenMcCarthy]

Well done Jeremy. A great history lesson.

[@Mr.President0911]

I knew this fact, but didn’t know the story behind it, it’s incredible what you can learn just by tapping a few thing on your phone

[@Saint_nobody]

Nonononononono. THANK YOU. And all the staff up at mt. Vernon. God bless and good night.

[@ChacoteOutdoorRecreation]

He will eternally ne the General of all those who wish to provide a way of life not constrained by the dictates of others, those who cherish freedom and know that America is exceptional.

[@lz56able]

so true, good insight

[@feartheghus]

In other words, he will always be America’s general, the indispensable man.

[@154Jamesp]

Great story and a fitting tribute to the greatest American.

[@khalidothman3316]

Thank you for history lesson my son will love this!

[@rebekahmcfatridge6691]

Thank you for this information... George Washington is my hero

[@rebekahmcfatridge6691]

@P Hawthorne ...that is very cool

[@lindajones8895]

Thank you for sharing. Most appreciated..I wish American history was still taught in the school systems like it was when I was younger. 🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@deaustin4018]

He could have been king, dictator for life, emperor, etc, His answer - "Mr. President - and nothing more."

[@IanP1963]

If he had done that then the US might as well have been a part of Britain again !!!!

[@londoncab2814]

So glad for that . So worthy

[@djtodd3]

Eisenhower was the Supreme Allied Commander of the European Theater during WWII which was a 5 star position, MacArthur was General of the Army in the Pacific Theater which was a 5 star position, and Admiral Nimitz was a Fleet Admiral which was a 5 star position. However, all of these ranks are reserved for wartime only.

[@henrivanbemmel]

Yes, but once a 5-star you remain in service. Washington only got his 6 star rank in 1976. However, his authority was never doubted.

[@henrivanbemmel]

If it were up to me, I think MacArthur was a self-serving liar, but I would elevate Gen. George C. Marshall to 6-star rank. He was one of the best people of the 20th century. While others fought the war, GCM picked all the leaders and organized the entire US Army's growth from a skeleton force of a few 100 thousand to over 10 million. All without hubris. I don't think we will someone of his qualities for a long time.

[@288skp]

Wasn’t he offered to be king? He declined the offer. Those who deserve the honour decline it; those who dont crave it. America grew great because of people like Washington..

[@mrmiz4372]

I knew about this but the backstory of the rank insignia of the Colonial Army was interesting. Another fun fact; because Washington is always to be the highest ranking officer in the Army, if a 6 star general rank were to be created, such as was contemplated for MacArthur, Washington would theoretically be posthumously promoted again to a 7 star......

[@anthonykaiser974]

No, he would just retain precedence as he does now against Pershing and Grant.

[@zachmueller2912]

Gen John Pershing was also promoted to the same rank as Washington (General of the Armies) even though it wasn't displayed by 6 stars (there wernt even 5 star generals back then) so he wore 4 gold stars instead of 4 silver stars worn by standard generals.

[@1999glock]

There has never been a 6 star rank recognized by the congress or the Army. Washington and Pershing hold the "unique" rank of General of the Armies which according to the official Army records "Appears...........to be of equal or greater rank than that of the 5 star rank". Only General Douglas Mac Arthur was considered to be awarded a full 6th star rank had his forces invaded Japan in WWII. This was due to the fact that as commander in chief, he would have been supreme commander over several officers who held a 5 star rank. When Japan surrendered, the need for a sixth star general was deemed unnecessary and his appointment cancelled.

[@PackersBearsFan3]

That was pretty cool. Thanks for doing the video!

[@MichaelJohnson-kx3ln]

Our best President...hands down.

[@sharkfinbite]

Then enters Theodore Roosevelt.

[@joeyjamison5772]

He was lucky, he didn't have libtards to deal with.

[@liamryan7239]

He was uniting

[@Voucher765]

Some say Lincoln was the #1 president since he kept the country together in the upheaval of the Civil War and abolished slavery in the process.

[@MichaelJohnson-kx3ln]

Yes!! Lincoln was AWESOME!!

[@RCAvhstape]

Glad to have found this video. I knew about the posthumous 6 star thing, but for years I wondered about what Washington's actual rank during the Revolution was and nobody ever gave me a straight answer. So, basically, he was a major general as far as pay grade goes, but wore a lieutenant general's rank insignia in order to signify his position as CinC of the Continental Army, kind of like a brevet rank.

[@rgriffinRETIRED_SHEEPDOG]

Excellent presentation!

[@jadapinkett1656]

Fun fact: My ancestor, Jusuf Ben Ali (Joesph Benenhaley) fought in Washington's army. He aided Thomas Sumter here in SC, NC, and VA.

[@davidpeters4129]

Your story piqued my interest, so did a little digging. From what I gathered Joseoh Benehaley (1753-1823) was a scout for Gen. Sumter, and was awarded a tract, near Sumter's plantation for his services after the war.

[@ourichie]

General of the Armies John Perishing disagrees with you

[@RadioactiveJonesthatboi]

That's what i was thinking when i saw the title

[@bdbailey9225]

Richie Brown- you da man! I was going to say that about Black Jack Pershing, but you got it covered. So I'll just say- Richie's right everybody, title's wrong. Get your facts straight, G W's MT Vernon! That's embarrassing!

[@carlhicksjr8401]

Richie, I hold a lot of respect for General of the Army John J. Pershing. But, mon frere', you are incorrect. When General Pershing was promoted to 5-star rank, it was bandied about that he would hold the same rank as George Washington. Pershing *strenuously* objected to this. Thus, Pershing was promoted to 'General of the Army' while Washington was given the rank 'General of the Armies' [plural]. And by order of the Commander in Chief, Pres. W. Wilson, and sanctified by Congress no other officer shall hold that title of rank other than Washington.

[@farpointgamingdirect]

Congress and every historical record disagrees with you, unfortunately

[@ariswitty99]

@@carlhicksjr8401 Pershing never held a 5 star rank, he was promoted to General of the Armies and given four gold stars as the insignia. Washington wasn't given the posthumous promotion to General of the Armies until 1976

[@Kristy_not_Kristine]

Excellent!!

[@cubemaster4485]

im watching this for a veterans project

[@TheMarySoriano]

I feel sad for our kids and college students who do not understand our history as it should be.

[@solidbanjobanjo9367]

This was a really interesting and informative video, thank you from the old empire 😄 🇬🇧

[@corylemons7242]

Touching video and even more amazing man. Washington literally built this country from its foundation.

[@sergeantarchdornan3013]

Who would win the entire British army......some angry farmers

[@whiteoctober4582]

The French would win ;)

[@inoob5906]

With french help of course

[@royalstag3795]

Who would win. The USA or some rice farmers

[@wachtwoorden2]

Who would win, the entirety of the thirteen colonies, french troops or a few Enlish batallions because the rest was off fighting other wars. Wow doesn't look so glorious anymore

[@jamgooandyou]

Some farmers, who were mostly rich, probably had some sort of sword, gun training (not military) had practice in killing the native Americans.....and had Spanish, French help (who along with the Dutch were 3 of the 4 big super powers) British also had to sail across the roughest seas known to man n still be combat ready lol

[@gustavovillegas5909]

Very interesting! Thanks for the vid

[@jesseroberts637]

Perhaps I am confused, but as far as I'm aware wasn't Pershing promoted to General of the Armies during WW1(a 6 star rank)?

[@marthaindahouse1010]

That was his title, not his rank. General Grant also was "General of the Armies", but that was only his title.

[@boulderaidanthe1st100]

Steve harvyeet grant was only general of the army. Pershing was the only man ever given the RANK of general of the armies, granted to him by congress for his service in WW1. Which is why Washington was posthumously awarded the rank in ‘78

[@anthonykaiser974]

General of the Armies is a RANK, not a TITLE.

[@MichaelJohnson-kx3ln]

Our first Field Marshal....Outstanding, l salute you sir!

[@alswann2702]

He should have lost them when he lost the Philippines.

[@feartheghus]

Ok now the obvious most important goal is to find a way to get promoted to the rank of a 7 star general so they have to move Washington’s rank up even more, keep pushing it foreword! Sadly I am afraid I almost definitely won’t be that helpful in the process.

[@murrayaronson3753]

I read somewhere that the rank of Marshal or Fieldmarshal for the US Army was considered during World War II, but one of the generals would received that rank was George C. Marshall. Marshal Marshall did not sound right, so General of the Army came into place and voila General of the Army Marshall.

[@drake8065]

very good vid

[@Central_CoastRotors]

Great points of our history.....thank you for posting it. Very enjoyable to watch.

[@EnchantedSmellyWolf]

I think he earned it because he fought along with his people even in front of battle.

[@KenMabie]

No actually he didn't

[@davidpeters4129]

@@KenMabie You are incorrect, read the accounts of Princeton and Monmouth. He had great personal courage under fire

[@simonepeters7971]

Thank you for telling me that I always had that question about the Sash and stars

[@dartharpy9404]

Great history

[@Jacobthekid28]

George Washington is that one kid in High School that always goes above and beyond on everything just to get an A+ 😂

[@ruskibeaner5983]

He wasn't the only one. Pershing was the only 6 star gen besides Washington.

[@karolinska1601]

He mentioned that in the video.

[@feartheghus]

Nick Prince what? Did George Washington not serve?

[@Byerly2k20]

@@feartheghus yes he did he was the commander of the continental military he was also in the British Empire army

[@ruskibeaner5983]

@@feartheghus he received his 6 star gen promotion after his death.

[@feartheghus]

Nick Prince I meant it as a joke, the idea being that we should push to make 7 stars a rank as quickly as possible to we can make George Washington a 7 star general, then move on to 8 and so on, all for the sole purpose of making Washington’s rank higher.

[@christianwestling2019]

1976 = Let's give George Washington 6 stars! 2020 = Tear down statues of George Washington! What a bright future... :/

[@stevenpilling5318]

I remember reading about that in the Stars & Stripes when I was stationed in Germany. The rank is entitled General of the Armies of the United States and has a six star insignia. There is no corresponding rank in any other branch of the service. Nor is it intended as an actual active service appointment, but strictly as an honour for George Washington.

[@shawnlake1491]

John j pershing has the title of 6 star general and 1 officer in the navy had the equivalent rank.

[@DoctorX101]

@@shawnlake1491 Technically, Pershing was not. He wore 4 stars which, as the video says, were gold. Between the wars, there were no "full generals" until near the end of the thirties. Anyways, as you probably know, 5 stars were created so American generals could match British field marshals. It may be apocryphal, but the reason the US does not have field marshals is because General Marshall did not want to be "Marshal Marshall." Also, tradition: U.S. Grant was "only" a four-star as the General of the Armies. So now we have five star generals. Pershing was still alive, though quite elderly. So how did he "fit?" The Secretary of War Simpson "punted" the question. He acknowledged Pershing's seniority. What did that mean? IF he implied that Pershing was a six star that could insult the British and anyone else who "only" had field marshals which are 5. The partisan push to make McArthur a 6 star came after the war. So, it was implied, but never made completely official, that Pershing simply had seniority. Given the Act described above, Washington can either be the most senior 5 star or a 6 star with, it seems, most happy to grant him that! You are correct about Admiral Dewy. For anyone who has not dozed off, he was given the title "Admiral of the Navy" with a quite impressive set of stripes! When 5 star generals were needed, the US also needed 5 star "Fleet Admirals" to, again, match the British and other allied nations. Also, you could not have 5 star Army generals around without 5 star Navy admirals! It was decided that Admiral Dewy's rank would have a higher precedence. He was dead, and there was no need to worry about anyone needed the 6th star. As with Washington, it appears people are happy to give him that. If you look up his formal dress, he has two "big stripes" on his sleeves. [Edited to fix an embarrassing spelling mistake.--Ed.]

[@shawnlake1491]

@@DoctorX101 yes ik but according to congress and the department of the army general of the armies of the united states is equivalent to a 6 ranking. Meaning since pershing held it he is a 6 star general even if he wasnt alive to see it. And im pretty sure pershing out ranks dewey in seniority. The air force is authorized to promote someone to the rank of 6 star but have not. Edit: pershing does out rank Dewey in seniority.

[@shawnlake1491]

@@DoctorX101 "The only case where historical seniority has been legally established by the United States Congress are for the two "super ranks" of the armed forces of the United States, these being the ranks General of the Armies and Admiral of the Navy. By clear precedent, the holders of these two ranks (three persons in all) are senior to all other officers of the United States military, past and present. By special Congressional edict, George Washington is considered the senior most officer of all time meaning he may never be lesser in seniority to any other military officer, although Washington technically shares the same rank with John Pershing."

[@DoctorX101]

@@shawnlake1491 Interesting, but I had not heard that was "official" as in the US Army now recognizes him as a "6 star" with Washington being "more senior." I believe the Act in 1976 declared that Washington would always outrank everyone which has cause some to wonder if he is a 7 star if Pershing is actually a 6 star! However, Stimpson's brilliantly diplomatic response was to the specific question if he was a 6 star. Stimpson avoided it without giving an answer. From Wiki: "It appears the intent of the Army was to make the General of the Armies senior in grade to the General of the Army. I have advised Congress that the War Department concurs in such proposed action." Now this is academic now. Has the US Army every officially recognized him as 6? I have not seen that. With Dewey, it is also "unofficial," that he is 6th, but, again, it is academic.

[@jasoncohea8507]

After World War I, Pershing was promoted to General of the Armies and became the only active-duty six-star general in U.S. history. George Washington also was a six-star general, but wasn't given the promotion until the U.S. bicentennial in 1976

[@TheCourier006]

That means... The real first six star general is Washington not Pershing

[@anthonykaiser974]

By implementation but not by current law. But as no six star insignia was ever enshrined into regulation, there isn't such thing anyway, hence the "conjecture" comment.

[@5sider]

Point of clarification. General Pershing held the same rank of General of the Armies as as did General Washington Legislation passed by Congress and signed into law specified that Washington was senior to Pershing.

[@mattt233]

Washington is first in Seniority but General of the Armies of the United States, the position held by John Pershing, is equal to the same "star" ranking but Washington is still senior to Pershing even though they are the same rank basically.

[@brandoncadena08]

They are the same grade you can't technically be the same rank as someone else. There is a somewhat convoluted system for figuring out who is senior in rank. That is also why there is some disagreement about Washington being a six star general as he could be a five star which is the same grade as several other generals but outrank them by seniority.

[@mattt233]

@@brandoncadena08 that's exactly what I said. While it is a title and not really an official rank they both are technically the same grade but Washington is above everyone else in Seniority.

[@brandoncadena08]

@@mattt233 no you said they were the same rank, no two people are the same rank they are the same grade.

[@mattt233]

@@brandoncadena08 ok semantics.

[@farpointgamingdirect]

Pershing held a POSITION not a RANK.

[@artwerksDallas]

Pershing is a 6 star General.

[@vasthockey4382]

John j Pershing was a general of the armies as well

[@DanielGonzalez-ez8cb]

that is 5 stars

[@marthaindahouse1010]

That was his title not his rank.

[@rickhahn5381]

He always wore 4 gold stars choosing not to accept his General of the Armies from a grateful Congress.

[@lilkleenex7842]

@@rickhahn5381 he wore 4 GOLD stars...the normal 4 star general rank is 4 silver stars not 4 gold stars

[@stevenschoenfeld5751]

Wow, now that I did not know, beautiful video love this, learned a lot, great job👍♥️😷

[@melindabendle6459]

🇺🇸🌎🌏🌍🇺🇸📡 UNITED STATE'S MARINE'S, MILITARY, AIR FORCE'S, U.S.S. GOD BLESS ALL FOR YOUR SERVICE..NOW WORLD WIDE ALL NEED'S YO FORCE'S ON SAVING THR WORLD..🌹

[@dfed324]

Actually, General John Pershing was a 6-star general too. For some unique reason during WWII (his seniority in the army I believe), Eisenhower, McArthur, and Nimitz were ranked 5 stars and Pershing 6.

[@Jdh1196]

Amazing. Love these informative videos and little insights on perhaps the GREATEST president to ever live. #LongliveGeorgeWashington

[@obi0914]

Follow that man to the gates of hell

[@notsosilentmajority1]

Duffy James Well said!!

[@bdbailey9225]

He's my hero. What a fabulous individual! Only man I know of in history to voluntarily step down from power in a precedent showing once again how he placed duty and honor above his personal glory and desires.

[@andypalencia3365]

obi0914 you don’t know if George Washington is going to hell stop it

[@jessie6504]

@@andypalencia3365 Well, I'm sure slave owners wouldn't be welcomed at the pearly gates of Heaven, but that's just my opinion.

[@Redawesomeoby]

Douglas Macarthur: I was here too.

[@santamanone]

Actually General John (Blackjack) Pershing was a six star general.

[@shawnlake1491]

Admiral Dewey also held the equivalent in the navy

[@bob80q]

he can be considered the EQUIVALENT of a 6 star General but was never awarded the rank

[@anthonykaiser974]

That's not how any of this works. The RANK is "General of the Armies." Not "Six Star General" which technically doesn't exist because no such insignia was directed. If it were, Pershing as well as Grant would be authorized it the same as Washington.

[@santamanone]

@@anthonykaiser974 ranks evolved significantly. THATis how all of this works.

[@anthonykaiser974]

@@santamanone your point?

[@MartinJohnson-o7z]

I believe, Pershing was first General of the Armies in 1919. Washington was not designated as General of the Armies until 1976, when it was realized that Pershing, technically, out ranked Washington. Grant was awarded General of the Armies in 2022.

[@artwerksDallas]

John Black Jack Pershing is also a 6 Star

[@farpointgamingdirect]

No. He isn't. His appointment to General of the Armies carried no promotion. It only designated him as senior to any other 4 star general

[@ariswitty99]

He didn't have a six star insignia but he did outrank General of the Army, which was 5 stars

[@Pathfinder-Doc]

I love the way he treated the muslims. A great piece of history.

[@artwerksDallas]

@@farpointgamingdirect false. George Washington is 1 of 2 6 stars. Neither carried the 6th star during their lifetimes

[@jeremycompton9322]

Excellent job! There are few Americans who inspire the valor of future generations like General Washington. As a guardrail to American policy, he is without equal. As a guardian of justice, we can only hope to emulate him.

[@sunamkevinjang4615]

Im not even in America but I can hear the leftists screeching

[@petunia9106]

?

[@lukesvideos4826]

About?

[@ScotchTapeMafia]

Yeah, only a matter of time before they start ranting about washington owning slaves and being a horrible person just because he was born during that time.

[@caractacuspott4581]

Very informative. Thank you.

[@napoleonibonaparte7198]

[@matthewmarston5149]

Am I a 6 star General, like Uncle George Washington

[@charleskasharyjr.9417]

HUZZAH!!!

[@sarunyareese6697]

Wow...!!!! I love your videos

[@myrealnamewontfi7289]

Everyone knows that the only 6-Star General to ever live is Napoleon Bonaparte.

[@AtheistGunGamer]

No

[@lorenheard2561]

Thank you Mr. Great note of history I know I never was taught!

[@lawabiding9152]

How can we trust this if it comes from George Washington’s home

[@mountvernon]

We cannot tell a lie?

[@lawabiding9152]

George Washington's Mount Vernon that’s what a lier would say

[@donessamuel3603]

GOOD explanation....

[@tballstaedt7807]

I'm an American and damn proud of it. But Washington the man was 90% legend and 10% luck.

[@50zcarsman]

Ahem...no. He was lucky, but that's a trait of a great general. No other man could have so successfully directed the country's military affairs on a continent-wide scale; so flexibly and democratically its military-civil relations; and so subtly and appropriately its interactions with allied forces. We get bogged-down in tussles about GW's performance in individual battles or campaigns, and miss his vital role as C-in-C. Had he been killed at almost any point, our defeat and capitulation would likely have followed swiftly. That's how you know he was for real. I happen to think he belongs in either slot 9 or 10 among the "10 great captains of military history."

[@tballstaedt7807]

@@50zcarsman i meant legend as in mythical. Washington was shrouded in myth for a reason. So his reputation and weaknesses would be beyond critisism and reproach. I believe he was a celebrity of his time. Celebrity status was mostly based on bullshit. Washington spent most of his military career fucking up things. Including almost single handedly starting a war with the French on behalf of the British. He was a terrible officer that made his superior officers cringe every time he lead men into battle. Washington the General is a Legend. Washington the man was an ambitious, brash, self serving entrepreneur who gambled and won.

[@tballstaedt7807]

@@50zcarsman there were many other founding fathers who were actually geniuses more worthy of game than he.

[@edwardmcintosh7952]

Ah but as a wise man said... "It's just 10% luck, 20% skill, 15% concentrated power of will. 5% pleasure, 50% pain. And 100% reason to remember the name."

[@tballstaedt7807]

@@edwardmcintosh7952 I cant find anything about that to disagree with. Washington was still a very ambitious self serving jack ass who made the professionals around him cringe.

[@Jtmurph222]

Really cool. Thanks for the history lesson and unknown fact!

[@winword1]

So president and 6 star so he would be the super unconditional commander in chief of all the armies of the USA or what?

[@rich7262]

Neat fact, Its my dream to visit Mt. Vernon someday.

[@bgt9005]

Because only chuck norris can get 7 stars.

[@NZRic001]

Than you very much!

[@mountvernon]

You are welcome, glad you enjoyed our video, Ric

[@anthonykaiser974]

As you said, it's conjecture. There are no "six star" ranks because there has been no rank designated as such. Washington and Pershing are both "Generals of the Armies" with Washington having precedence of seniority. If a rank insignia were designated for the rank, both would be entitled to it.

[@ateram]

General Pershing was made General of the Armies as well (6 star general).

[@bob80q]

General of the Armies is a RANK, he was NOT awarded 6 star GRADE

[@LordAngryGopnik]

So fun fact: The rank has only been awarded on two occasions: in 1919, to general John J. Pershing in recognition of his service in the First World War, and in 1976, to George Washington, who was posthumously promoted during the United States Bicentennial celebrations. General Pershing, who was promoted by President Woodrow Wilson with the authorization of Congress, remains the only at-the-time active duty officer or living American to have held the rank.

[@twocosmic2982]

One of the most unbelievable things was the fact he was a kid , like 23 yrs old or something close. Imagine just a kid ,me personally I always felt he deserved such more of a monument, but that's just my opinion.

[@RedStickHistorian]

George Washington lived from February 22, 1732 - December 14, 1799, so he was older than 23 years when he commanded the Continental Army. You are correct that he was a great man and deserves all the honors and more that he has received.

[@davidpeters4129]

You must be thinking of when he was commissioned Colonel of Virginia Provincial Militia by Gov. Dinwiddie, he was about 23 at the beginning of the French & Indian War

[@therealmeemawmallen9493]

Funbabulous! Great informative info! 😊

[@01sapphireGTS]

Very interesting. Great Post.

[@captainmanic1959]

He’s not the only one. Blackjack Pershing is the other one, and he held the rank for around 40 years before Washington got the rank. Pershing wore four stars before his promotion, and rather than adding a fifth star, he changed his stars from gold to silver as silver ranks higher in military heraldry. The reason it is now a six star rank should be obvious.

[@edwardpate6128]

So was Grant in the Civil War.

[@RobbyHouseIV]

Great presentation! Is there any way to jack up the volume of that awesome background music? Why I can barely hear it. Maybe just bump it up a little for the ambience and what not. Thanks a bunch. Okay, I need to go change my clothes as I'm soaking wet dripping in sarcasm. Bye for now!

[@josephvandyck5469]

I wish I had known this when I went to US Army basic training. I could have stumped my Drills. I would have pushed Ft. Benning from GA to AL, but it would have been worth it!

[@Philobiblion]

Very interesting. The rank of General of the Armies (plural) has been conferred three times. In 1919 to Black Jack Pershing; in 1922 posthumously to Ulysses S. Grant, and as you said, to GW. Five star rank is General of the Army (singular) and has been conferred in wartime. Note also that the word 'epaulette' is pronounced eh puh let Also, more than one aide de camp are called aides de camp, as in attorneys general etc.