I recently finished reading "Washington, A Life" by Ron Chernow, a Penguin Press book published last year. As you might guess from its length of 817 pages, which is exclusive of notes, etc., this is a detailed biography. While the bulk of the time is spent on Washington's early military exploits, the Revolution and his presidency, there is considerable time given to family and his life as a planter and slave owner at Mount Vernon. It is not and shouldn't be a quick read.
Chernow's portrait is not of a white-washed Washington. In examining his strengths and weaknesses, he humanizes the man without diminishing any of his accomplishments. Washington was not one to pass on an opportunity to advance his career or fortune, yet he was very much concerned with his image and legacy. He did not wish to be thought of as too ambitious or as one currying favor. He was extremely brave in battle but not willing to risk his fortune by freeing his slaves. While many tend to think of Washington as above politics, his political skills were considerable. Ultimately, it was the political machinations of fellow Virginians Jefferson and Madison that awakened him to the seamier side of politics and destroyed his relationships with both men.
If you enjoy this book, you'll probably enjoy reading Chernow's excellent biography, "Alexander Hamilton", published in 2004.
Other good books I've read on Washington:
Robert Leckie's "George Washington's War: The Saga of the American Revolution" published in 1992.
James T. Flexner wrote a four volume biography of George Washington. I read his 1994 one-volume bio "Washington: The Indispensable Man".
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