Letter from George Washington to the President of Congress
3/23/1783
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While at the Newburgh (NY) cantonment, General George Washington corresponded with the Marquis de Lafayette. Lafayette was on leave from the army working in Europe to represent American interests. In a letter dated December 4, 1782, Lafayette asked Washington to “favorably endorse his conduct” in writing to Congress. Washington complied with Lafayette’s request in this letter, dated March 23, 1783. Shortly thereafter Congress passed a resolution of approval and thanks for Lafayette’s services.
Notes on this document written by history scholars are available on Founders Online, a searchable archive of the correspondence and other writings of several of the Founders of the United States government.
Notes on this document written by history scholars are available on Founders Online, a searchable archive of the correspondence and other writings of several of the Founders of the United States government.
Transcript
Sir,
Congress have had too many unequivocal proofs of the Zeal—the attachment to—and important exertions of this young nobleman in the American Cause, to entertain a doubt of the propriety of his present absence—Sure I am that his return will be as soon as he can make it subserviant to the Interest of this Country—These being my Sentiments, I communicate them without reserve.
I have the honor to be with great respect Yr Excellencys Most Obt & Hble Servt
Go: Washington
Go: Washington
This primary source comes from the Records of the Continental and Confederation Congresses and the Constitutional Convention.
National Archives Identifier: 1663347
Full Citation: Letter from George Washington to the President of Congress; 3/23/1783; Letters from General George Washington, Commander in Chief of the Army; Papers of the Continental Congress, 1774 - 1789; Records of the Continental and Confederation Congresses and the Constitutional Convention, Record Group 360; National Archives Building, Washington, DC. [Online Version, https://docsteach.org/documents/document/letter-washington-president-congress, May 1, 2024]Rights: Public Domain, Free of Known Copyright Restrictions. Learn more on our privacy and legal page.