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George Washington DS

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:1,000.00 USD Estimated At:NA
George Washington DS
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One of the best documents signed by George Washington as President, granting a parcel of land to his chief rival for Commander-in-General of the Continental Army, General Horatio Gates. Document dated 17 September 1796 acknowledges the military service to the United States of ''the Honorable Horatio Gates (a Major General for seven years)'' by granting him a tract of land. Twelve years prior, General Gates was credited for the momentous victory at Saratoga, which, by defeating British General Burgoyne in October 1777, turned the Revolutionary War in favor of the colonists and convinced France and Spain to enter the war on America's behalf. One of only a handful of American officers to have military experience at the start of the war, Gates would believe throughout that it was he, and not Washington, who should have been tapped as Commander-in-Chief. In fact, shortly after Saratoga, Gates aligned himself with critics of Washington such as Thomas Mifflin and Thomas Conway who, in a subtle lobbying and letter-writing campaign, attempted to oust Washington and replace him with Gates. However, when Washington discovered these letters critical of his command, the plot crumbled and Gates would apologize to Washington, although their relationship remained tenous thereafter. Document is in near fine condition with a bold signature, ''GWashington'' and an intact U.S. paper seal still present. A few tiny holes along folds and a minute chip to upper left corner are the only flaws to an otherwise beautifully well-preserved document. Measures 12.75'' x 15'' on vellum. An exceptional, museum-worthy item signed by President George Washington.