Slaves are not supposed to have a dramatic effect on colonial life.

             were viewed as a materialistic object rather then an emotional attachment. George Washington stepped outside of this norm, and accepted William "Billy" Lee into his family. George Washington was not only emotionally attached to Lee, but also depended on him for everyday life and services. .

             Washington purchased Lee for 61.15 pounds from Smith Ball Lee of Westmoreland County in 1767 (Cunliffe 22). The date in which Lee was purchased has been disputed, as many historians including, William Martin claim he was bought in 1768. His slave name was, "Mulatto Will", but Washington wanted Lee to establish a human quality so he preferred to call him Will (Alden). Calling him either Lee or "Mulatto Will" would show Lee was nothing more then a slave. Washington wanted Lee to represent a person, and not just a slave. .

             Lee was considered Washington"s favorite huntsman before the Revolutionary War. Unlike several other slaves, Lee was Washington"s personal valet, and body servant (Ferling 89). Both Washington and Lee were close companions during the war, as Lee was extremely loyal to his white master. Never backing down to anything Lee showed an uncommon degree of courage each time he followed the general into battle. During public gatherings Lee displayed a high-social level, acted in a professional manner, and presented himself as an intelligent man. Washington"s respect toward Lee was displayed when he would refer to him as "my servant" or "my fellow", and never calling him "my slave". (Nell 12) This is displaying the close relationship Washington and Lee had together, as many other slaves around America were treated like filth. .

             Lee came to Mount Vernon as a teenager. Diary entries from Washington show that Lee became a vital figure in Washington's life. Three times per week Lee joined the general in hunting.