Ancient Greek and Roman Resource: Cincinnatus and Washington

A large group of scholars, most notably classicists, have discovered convincing evidence that the role of the classics during the colonial and revolutionary periods had a deep impact on the thought and action of early Americans. These scholars point to the ubiquity of classical quotations, tags, references, and fine arts that colonial Americans made both symbolic and practical use of, in abundance. The classics provided unparalleled examples in how to conduct a virtuous and moral life. Inspired, motivated, supported, and influenced by the examples of antiquity, colonial American revered and utilized the classics unlike any other generation in the post-Roman history of Western civilizations. Early Americans were fascinated with the parallels between the careers of George Washington and Cincinnatus. Cincinnatus symbolized for Americans all the qualities that were good in a leader. In Washington, the people were given a nearly mythical hero whom thy could admire, trust, and imitate. The two became intertwined, creating parallels between the new America and Ancient Rome. This resource offers a plethora of primary source references of the two heroes and their connections, as well as other early American and Ancient Roman leaders. Reproducible masters include word searches, comparison charts, internet search items, and map activities.