22nd February saw the anniversary of George Washington’s birth, 290 years ago in 1732. I discuss with distinguished historian David O. Stewart his early career, familial relationships and the vexed issue of slavery. Washington owned slaves, and for the first part of his life was comfortable with it, but that view changed once he commanded African American troops during the War of Independence. In the second part we discuss Washington as the politician – his relationship with John Adams, Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson.

You can get hold of David’s book here: https://amzn.to/3pI8LBJ