George Washington in British Propaganda: Perceptions and Representations

Both black and white legends surrounding George Washington began to emerge early in his career, with the former being actively propagated by both American and British Tories. However, Russian historical scholarship has largely overlooked Washington’s portrayal in British propaganda. Addressing this gap is particularly relevant, as the study of propaganda mechanisms and the political images they generate remains a significant area of modern historical research. This study draws primarily on periodicals from England, Scotland, and Ireland published during the American War of Independence (1775–1783), with a particular focus on the provincial press. Analysing provincial newspapers provides insight not only into public opinion in London but also into perceptions in Britain’s rural regions, where Washington’s image was shaped among the wider reading public. Given the prevalence of misinformation in British newspapers, American sources – including Washington’s personal papers and the journals of the Continental Congress – were used to verify claims. The findings suggest that the widespread dissemination of false information about Washington was only partly due to the inherent unreliability of transatlantic communication during wartime. To a significant extent, it was a product of deliberate efforts by British propagandists. No substantial regional differences were observed in the portrayal of Washington in the English and Scottish press. However, the Irish press occupied a distinct position, using the American conflict as a lens through which to frame regional anti-colonial discourse. Overall, British pro-government propaganda succeeded in constructing a consistent negative image of Washington, depicting him as a dictator and a ruthless commander who allegedly ordered the burning of New York.