What contributions to america independence were made by military leaders and statesmen?

George Washington did everything he could to save his men.  
Even if it meant almost losing every fight.  
George Washington only served two terms because he did not want to be seen as a king.  This tradition stayed in place until FDR.  
Statesmen like Benjamin Franklin played a big role in libraries and postal service.  He stated that the government should help in educating the youth.  In terms of communicating the government should provide a service to help.  Also firefighting should also be a service.