A tourist visiting Washington, D.C., today has an overwhelming sightseeing schedule. Taking in the 4-mile panoramic loop of presidential monuments, war memorials, and museums along the National Mall is an intoxicating experience. The man the city is named for could not possibly have anticipated all the destinations and distractions in this tourist’s path. But George Washington understood the purpose of the city he never lived to see. Before a single stone was laid, he knew that a grand symbol was needed to represent the promise of America to the world. His determination to realize his vision overcame almost insurmountable setbacks and led to one of history’s most impressive real estate deals….