George Washington's Presidency Dbq

One of Washington's most important characteristic was his upmost respect for the constitution and that the country must succeed to matter the cost. When Washington stepped aside from the commander of the continental congress and let the powers at be take over. In his resignation speech to congress he states “ I have now the honor of offering my sincere Congratulations to congress and of presenting myself before them to surrender into their hand trust commit to me, and to claim the indulgence of retiring from the Service of my country”(Writings 226) Though the constitution had not been created yet Washington had given deference to a higher power the government. He had not seized power this is critical to the success of the nation. The country

needed Washington and as Mcdonald said “it would be inglourious in such a situation not to hazard the glory however great, which he might have previously acquired.”In other words, Washington could not continue to be the father of his country if the country did not continue to exist.”(Mcdonald 4) He was needed and answered the call. When the office of presidency was created Washington was in the minds of the founders “Certainly the powerful office of the presidency, one of the most remarkable features of the new government, was crafted to conform to the flawless character of George Washington.” (Rhodehamel 208) He was the right man for the job he knew the significance of his position.

“As much as he wanted to remain above politics and not appear to peddle a document that could lead to elevation of president, Washington had so much time and reputation invested in the Constitution and believed so strongly that his country could not survive without it, that its progress consumed him even as he resumed day to day management of his estate.”(Larson 70) These ideals were so deeply ingrained in Washington that the Union could not fail and had to succeed. Washington in his first address to congress stats “By the article establishing the executive department, it is made the duty of the President “to recommend to your consideration, such measures as he shall judge necessary expedient” The circumstance under which I now meet you, will acquit me from entering into that subject, farther than to refer to the Great Constitutional Charter under which you assembled”(Writings 283) George Washington knew the importance of his stance and precedent and that this country was a nation of laws that must be respected and

executed. When Hamilton was trying to make the U.S treasury “Washington kept out of the debate, believing the constitution prohibited the executive from interfering in legislative matters”(Rhodehamel 246) He knew the importance of setting this precedent. However, Washington did take some liberties in creating the cabinet and creating Washington D.C. Washington, however, had again increased presidential power: The Constitution had given the president no role in establishing the national capital, assigning Congress “exclusive legislation in all cases whatsoever over such district” Congress had simply deferred to the president.”(Rhodehamel 255) Washington respected the constitution, but he realized that changes would be needed in the future and it would needed have aspects of being living and breathing.