The wisest general who ever lived

As America approaches the 250th anniversary of its independence, a familiar claim has resurfaced. In recent months, I have heard a number of television commentators describe the United States as a "Christian nation," as though that settles the matter.

A brief look back is in order, beginning with George Washington and a deadly problem.

George Washington and the battle against disease

Americans often think of George Washington as a military commander on horseback, crossing the Delaware or standing at Valley Forge. Most have no idea that one of the greatest threats facing his army was not the Br...