December 14 in American History

December 14, 1799 — George Washington dies

The first president died at Mount Vernon at 67, after a brief throat illness. The man who could have been king and refused, twice, was eulogized as "first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen." The nation he'd fathered went into deep mourning for the leader who taught it how to let leaders go.

Visit the SiteSee Mount Vernon on the Freedom map

Common Questions About December 14

What happened on December 14 in American history?

In 1799: George Washington dies. The first president died at Mount Vernon at 67, after a brief throat illness.

Why is December 14 significant?

The first president died at Mount Vernon at 67, after a brief throat illness. The man who could have been king and refused, twice, was eulogized as "first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen." The nation he'd fathered went into deep mourning for the leader who taught it how to let leaders go.

The Daily Poll · Weigh In

What was Washington's greatest gift to the country?

Opinion, not a quiz — no wrong answer.

★ Forge Your Freedom

How Well Do You Know American History?

Your Freedom Score puts a number on it — 60 seconds, free. See how you rank, then get a history moment like this in your brief every day.

Take the Free Assessment
the National Guard is bornthe Bill of Rights is ratified