Regarding Harold's comment: "These are fine points that you make regarding George Washington but I am puzzled that you seem to think of GW only as an individual planter." -- as I said earlier to Lonny, I take that up in detail in "An Imperfect God." I argue that GW DID intend his will to be a public, political statement on slavery, and that he had earlier tried to free his slaves and the Custis slaves (owned by Martha's family) while he was in office, but was thwarted by the Custises. As early as 1784 Lafayette had begged him to free the MV slaves, an act which Lafayette told GW would set an example for the country. I argue that GW at length decided to take L's advice. HW To subscribe, change options, or unsubscribe, please see the instructions at http://listlva.lib.va.us/archives/va-hist.html