One of the most recognizable figures in the history of our nation wasn't perfect. George Washington, early on in life failed miserably and was forced to surrender. We could easily look at him and look at the enormous mistake that was Fort Necessity and condemn the man for his shortcomings. However, as we trek through these stories of American Grit, we've learned that failing is for learning. Sometimes the lesson learned is grave, and only for those who come later. Luckily for George, the failure of Fort Necessity did not cost him his life.The year was 1754 and the British and French were at war. George Washington, at the time, was in command of 400 soldiers, 100 regular British Troops, and 300 provincial troops. The future American president and famed general made a poor decision. Fort Necessity, built on the low ground in a meadow, surrounded by the high ground with plenty of tree cover. The location, while a few historians believe the location was chosen to help feed the livestock, couldn't have been worse.The small wooden circle was out in the open, exposed and with poor sight lines. The battle fought here was doomed to be a loss before it even started, and yet we are inspired, why?

George Washington failed. But it didn't end him. We fail every day, people, people are these imperfect, wretched creatures at times. Despite all that though, we have this ability to learn and to overcome our past. Would George have succeeded during the harsh winter at Valley Forge or the siege of Boston? We may never know, but we do know that George did not wallow in self-pity and failure for long. He learned from his failure. He got better. We all have the opportunity to get better after a failure. That's how learning occurs.Let the father of our nation inspire you, whenever you fail, remember he too was not perfect. Rise up and be better!Read more stories of American Grit here:

LEWIS B. PULLER: THE MARINE PART 1

D.W. RUTLEDGE: BUILDING A DYNASTY OF CHARACTER

GEORGE S. PATTON: OLYMPIAN