Separating George Washington the man from Washington the legend is difficult for historians and students alike because his fame complicates historical scrutiny. Washington owned slaves and ambitiously sought power, yet he freed his slaves upon his death and he used his power to forge a democratic nation. Throughout this unit students examine Washington's letters, public papers, and speeches which reveal the personal traits and leadership qualities that characterized the man rather than the legend. The unit contains objectives, correlations to the National History Standards, teacher background materials, lesson plans, student resources, and a selected bibliography. Six lessons focus student effort on working with primary source documents to investigate Washington's life and achievements. Lesson titles include: (1) "The Making of a Leader"; (2) "Military Leader: George Washington and the American Revolution"; (3) "George Washington and the Constitution"; (4) "George Washington as President"; (5) "George Washington and the Native Americans"; and (6) "George Washington and Slavery." Although the lessons are recommended for grades 8-12, some of the readings may need to be adapted for effective use by eighth grade students. Contains 15-item selected bibliography. (BT)