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George Washington and the Barbary Coast Pirates. A collection of documents, maps, and links pertaining to the pirates of the Barbary Coast of North Africa. These selected items explore the ongoing problem and subsequent actions taken during Washington's administration.

The Farewell Address, 19 September 1796
"...I anticipate with pleasing expectation that retreat, in which I promise myself to realize, without alloy, the sweet enjoyment of partaking, in the midst of my fellow Citizens, the benign influence of good Laws under a free Government—the ever favourite object of my heart, and the happy reward, as I trust, of our mutual cares, labours and dangers."

Thanksgiving Proclamation, 3 October 1789

Washington and Slavery. Documents from the Papers of George Washington and referencing the names and ages of his slaves at Mount Vernon as well as related articles investigating Washington's role in the controversy over slavery.

Washington's Will. George Washington prepared his will alone, without, as he attested, any "professional character" being "consulted" or having "any Agency in the draught." He dated the will, the work of many "leisure hours," the "ninth day of July" in 1799, probably the date that he finished making the final copy. And he put his name at the bottom of all but one of its twenty-nine pages, transcribed here for reading on-line. Also included with the will are a Schedule of Property, and list of "Negros Belonging to George Washington in His Own Right and By Marriage."

An Inventory of Articles at Mount Vernon, with their appraisal value annexed, 1810.

Fielding Lewis, Genealogy document. The Bible Entries.

Washington's Advice on Love & Marriage. Washington's views expressed through letters of advice to his younger relatives.

The Rules of Civility. These maxims originated in the late sixteenth century in France and were popularly circulated during Washington's time. Washington wrote out a copy of the 110 Rules in his school book when he was about sixteen years old. This exercise, now regarded as a formative influence in the development of his character, included guidelines for behavior in pleasant company, appropriate actions in formal situations, and general courtesies.