FOR’TI’TUDE, *n*. [L. *fortitudo*, from *fortis*, strong.] That strength or firmness of mind or soul, which enables a person to encounter danger with coolness and courage, or to bear pain or adversity.
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“To be prepared for war, is one of the most effectual means of preserving peace.” – President George Washington. Date: January 8, 1790. First Annual Message
“Let us therefore rely upon the goodness of the Cause, and the aid of the supreme Being, in whose hands Victory is, to animate and encourage us to great and noble Actions – The Eyes of all our Countrymen are now upon us, and we shall have their blessings, and praises, if happily we are the instruments of saving them from the Tyranny mediated against them. Let us therefore animate and encourage each other, and show the whole world, that a Freeman contending for Liberty on his own ground is superior to any slavish mercenary on earth.” – General George Washington. Date: July 2, 1776. General Orders
“If we desire to avoid insult, we must be able to repel it; if we desire to secure peace, one of the most powerful instruments of our rising prosperity, it must be known, that we are at all times ready for War. – President George Washington. Date: December 13, 1793. Fifth annual address to Congress.
