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Hi!

I'm listening to a course on the American Revolution right now and just found that George Washington had an older brother (or half-brother) named Lawrence who died in 1752 of disease. He was an officer in the American militia and served in several campaigns in the 40's. George only got his position when Lawrence died, according to the course.

What would the Revolution have been liked had Lawrence survived until 1775? Remember that if Lawrence survives, George likely does not serve in as many campaigns as he does in our time line. It's quite possible that Lawrence could have been given the position of commander-in-chief of the American forces instead of George (assuming he's still healthy enough to take the field at age 60). And if he doesn't assume command, the Americans would likely choose a commander more experienced than George.

The net result would be an American army without George Washington at the helm. George would likely have been a rabid revolutionary (it's not a good idea for the Virginian governor to threaten to arm your slaves) but if he did join the army he would probably have a low rank and be relatively unknown.

What happens next?

ACG
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