What is the main conflict in Washington, the Indispensable Man by James Thomas Flexner?

Not born into wealth, Washington learns early that hard work will be his way out of his situation. The hope of attending school in England is quashed with the death of his father when Washington, the oldest of five children from his father's second marriage, becomes the emotional crutch of a domineering mother. Washington manages to escape into rugged adventures in unexplored territories, where he gains military prowess and knowledge of primitive fighting. Washington soon becomes a surveyor and buys property in Virginia, securing some financial security for himself.