What If George Washington Had Served in the British Army?

Throughout history, pivotal moments have altered the course of nations, and George Washington’s decision to reject a British Army commission in the early 1750s is one such significant turning point. If George Washington had accepted the commission he desired, numerous historical implications could have emerged, reshaping the trajectory of the American Revolution and the formation of the United States.

Loyalist Perspective

Washington's acceptance of a British commission would likely have positioned him as a loyalist, aligning his interests with British colonial policy rather than the growing sentiments for American independence. This decision could have drastically altered his trajectory from a revolutionary leader to a military officer supporting British interests. Washington, known for his steadfast loyalty and dedication, would have embraced the role of a loyalist without any reservations, thus altering his historical narrative.

Impact on the American Revolution

Without George Washington's leadership in the Continental Army, the American Revolution might have unfolded differently. His strategic acumen and ability to rally support were crucial in maintaining morale and unity among the colonies. Other leaders like John Adams or Thomas Jefferson might have taken more prominent roles, potentially leading to different strategies and outcomes. The absence of Washington could have led to a lack of effective military leadership, altering the performance and morale of the Continental Army. This could have weakened the fight for independence and potentially resulted in a different structure of the American military and political landscape.

Military Leadership

Washington's experience and training in the British Army could have enhanced his military skills and strategies. However, this professional training might also have solidified his commitment to British rule. A more organized and effective British response to colonial dissent could have potentially quelled revolutionary sentiments before they gained momentum. On the other hand, Washington's military expertise, shaped by his experiences both in the British Army and in commanding the Continental Army, played a crucial role in winning the war of independence.

Colonial Relations

Washington's commission could have affected the relationship between the colonies and Britain. If he had served successfully in the British Army, it might have created a perception among colonists that loyalty to the Crown was a viable path. This could have delayed or diminished the push for independence, potentially altering the colonial mindset and the eventual push toward self-governance. The success of the British in retaining a loyalist like Washington could have had a significant impact on the colonial perception of their relationship with Britain.

Legacy and National Identity

As the father of the country, Washington holds a special place in American history. If he had served in the British Army, his legacy and the eventual creation of a national identity separate from British rule might have been very different. The symbolic importance of Washington would have been lessened, and the narrative of the American Revolution would have taken on a different shape. This could have led to a different historical interpretation of the founding of the United States.

Changing Trajectory: The Role of Benedict Arnold

Historians have long speculated about the impact of such a scenario, particularly regarding Benedict Arnold. As America's most capable field commander, Arnold might have made up for Washington's absence. If Congress had not treated Arnold as poorly as they did, and Arnold had been appointed commander-in-chief, the Continental military cause could have fared much better. Benedict Arnold's superior military skills and leadership could have significantly altered the course of the war, potentially tipping the balance in favor of the British. This hypothetical scenario underscores the importance of key figures and their decisions in shaping historical outcomes.

Ultimately, the decision that George Washington made between the British and Continental Army has had a lasting impact on American history. The Butterfly Effect, a concept in chaos theory, suggests that small changes in the past can have significant effects on the present. If Washington had served in the British Army, the course of events – from the American Revolution to the formation of the United States – could have been profoundly altered.