General George Washington Resigning His Commission to Congress 1783

Oil on Canvas. 

Date: 1824

Dimensions: 12’ x 18’

Location: The Rotunda, US Capitol, Washington, DC, USA

Notes: General George Washington resigned his commission as Commander-in-Chief of the Army to the Congress on December 23, 1783 at the Maryland State House in Annapolis.  This action was of great significance in establishing of civilian rather than military rule, leading to democracy rather than dictatorship. Washington stands with two aides-de-camp addressing the president of the Congress, Thomas Mifflin, and others, such as Elbridge Gerry, Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe, and James Madison. Mrs. Washington and her three grandchildren are shown watching from the gallery, although they were not in fact present at the event.

John Trumbull (1756–1843) was born in Connecticut.  He was the son of the governor of Connecticut.  He studied painting with Benjamin West in London and is known for his paintings recounting significant events in US history.  After graduating from Harvard University, he served in the Continental Army under General Washington.