The Papers of George Washington - (Papers of George Washington: Presidential) (Hardcover)

About the Book

Washington remained involved with his private affairs, taking pains to retrieve Martha Washington's runaway slave Ona (Oney) Judge, actions that did not square easily with aspirations expressed in his farewell address regarding the happiness of the people of these States, under the auspices of liberty.

Book Synopsis

Throughout volume 20 of the Presidential Series, George Washington looked forward to retirement from public life, preparing a farewell address to announce his intention and leave behind guiding principles for the nation. Relations with Great Britain and France dominated foreign policy, as the House of Representatives agreed to implement the provisions of the Jay Treaty and as the president responded to a looming diplomatic crisis by recalling James Monroe, U.S. minister to France. Washington also remained involved with his private affairs, taking pains to retrieve Martha Washington's runaway slave Ona (Oney) Judge, actions that did not square easily with aspirations expressed in his farewell address regarding "the happiness of the people of these States, under the auspices of liberty."

Review Quotes

The Papers of George Washington, in the University of Virginia Press's "Presidential" series, collectively cover the years 1788 through 1797; this volume focuses exclusively on documents from 1796.... Offering a window onto Washington's private life, this volume also covers his western land dealings, his efforts to retrieve Martha Washington's runaway slave (Ona Judge), and his constant tinkering to improve Mount Vernon and its crops.... The volume includes a useful introduction and a comprehensive index. Summing Up: Recommended. Lower-division undergraduates through faculty.

-- "CHOICE"