Who is commonly referred to as the "Father of our country"?

George Washington is commonly referred to as the "Father of our country" due to his pivotal role in the founding of the United States. He served as the commander of the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War, leading the colonies to victory against British rule. After the war, Washington's leadership qualities and his status as a unifying figure made him the natural choice to become the first President of the United States in 1789. His leadership during the formation of the new government and his precedent-setting policies solidified his legacy as a key founding father, shaping the principles of democracy that continue to influence the nation today.

The other figures mentioned, while important in their own rights – Thomas Jefferson as the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, Abraham Lincoln as a pivotal president during the Civil War, and Benjamin Franklin for his contributions to diplomacy and science – do not hold the same specific title associated with the founding and unification of the country as Washington does.