George Washington“The Greatest Man in the World”

John MorleySpring 2012

Timeline 1732 – Born in Virginia 1752 – Joined Virginia’s militia 1754 – Became local war hero due to letters home 1758 – “Retirement” from militia 1759 – Marriage to widow Martha, becomes stepfather to her two

children 1775 – Named Commander-in-Chief of newly formed Continental

Army 1781 – Accepted surrender of the British at Yorktown 1783 – Retired his commission, returned to Mount Vernon 1787 – Participated in Constitutional Convention 1789 – Unanimously elected 1st President of United States 1793 – Unanimously elected to second term 1797 – Final retirement from public service 1799 – Died at the age of 67

Alignment of Domains Family – Martha was with him as much as possible,

including at winter quarters every year of the war Community – Washington viewed himself as public

property, and remarked in retirement that he and Martha hadn’t had a private dinner in 20 years

Work – He viewed his work in war and peace as vital to the happiness of his family, community, and nation

Self – He stayed true to his values and principles despite tremendous temptation

The Man Who Would Not Be King Throughout the war and after, the Continental Army

(justifiably) felt mistreated by Congress◦ Issues of compensation, food, equipment, etc.

Many within the army and elsewhere wanted Washington to set himself up as King, and everyone knew it would be easy◦ An adoring public and 26,000 loyal troops angry at

Congress Washington had always said he would simply return

to Mount Vernon once the war was over◦ Upon hearing that, King George III famously said

that if Washington actually did so, he would be “the greatest man in the world”

The Man Who Would Not Be King Washington responded to the proposed coup with

the following speech:“...And let me conjure you, in the name of our Common Country, as you value your own sacred honor, as you respect the rights of humanity, and as you regard the Military and National Character of America, to express Your utmost horror and detestation of the Man who wishes, under any specious pretences, to overturn the liberties of our Country, and who wickedly attempts to open the flood Gates of Civil discord, and deluge our rising Empire in Blood.”

The Man Who Would Not Be KingResisted calls to put his name forth for

presidency, but ultimately acquiesced and was unanimously elected◦ As the first, Washington was hyperaware of the

dangers of setting precedent, and eschewed the appearance of monarchy

Fought harder against serving a second term, but gave in and was unanimously elected again

Flatly refused to allow his name to be put forth for a third term and retired◦ Set 2-term precedent that lasted 150 years until FDR

LessonsFamily can be integrated into unusual

domainsPrecedent can have more impact than we

can foreseeFor strong leaders, the ability and willingness

to cede control for the good of others will set you apart