Introduction
When the name of George Washington comes up, we often think of the father of the nation, the president, the general, and especially of a man who seriously cared about his country. One of the most popular stories related to Washington has him as a young boy being brave enough to tell the truth and accept his responsibility after cutting down a cherry tree.
The Story
The story goes that one day, the young George Washington was outside in the orchard near his mother’s house in Fredericksburg. Supposedly, Washington was given a hatchet to try out and while playing with it, he decided to cut down his mother’s beloved cherry tree. When his father asked him if he had cut down the tree, Washington bravely admitted it. “I cannot tell a lie,” young Washington admitted—a phrase associated with the incident for many years.
Historical Evidence
Unfortunately, the story about Washington telling the truth about the cherry tree is most likely a myth. We do know that Washington was an exemplary child, highly admired by his family and friends. Being of a strong moral character, he most definitely would not have lied about cutting down a tree or anything else.
But the “cherry tree fabrication” seems to have originated in a book written by Mason Locke Weems—a Parson, author and bookseller, who wrote “The Life of Washington” around 1800, which includes the cherry tree story.
Modern Day Interpretations
George Washington has become an admirable figure and a heroic leader in American culture. While the Cherry Tree story may not be true, its message of telling the truth and accepting responsibility are ideas that are widely accepted and continue to be employed in today’s society. The cherry tree story is still treasured and taught as a moral lesson, exemplifying Washington’s integrity and character.
Popular Culture
The story of George Washington and the cherry tree has been perpetuated in movies, television shows, books, comic books and more. The cherry tree story is not only symbolic, but a reminder of the good moral character of George Washington, and a tribute to his leadership.
Psychology of Values
The story has become such an important part of American culture, that a number of psychological studies have been done to determine the importance of the story to American attitudes of truth and integrity. These studies have shown that the “cherry tree incident” is used as an example of admired behavior, truth, and courage in the face of personal difficulty.
Summary of the Story
George Washington is a beloved founder of America, who is admired and recognized for their moral character and courage. While the famous story of the cherry tree may be a myth, the truth and integrity behind the story are firmly rooted in American culture. Today, the story of George Washington and the cherry tree is still a powerful example of good moral character, truth, and being able to stand behind one’s values.
