George Washington on the
Defensive in the Revolutionary War
The 1st President: What kind of President was Washington?
Against his wishes, Congress insisted that George Washington receive a salary for serving as president.
Washington understood above all else that his actions as President of the United States would have long-lasting consequences. He knew he needed to set precedents for future presidents to come.
Characteristics of the President Washington established
1
Refusing to be addressed in the style of European monarchs, George Washington insisted that he instead be addressed as “Mister President.”
2
He established the first group of presidential advisors, known as the cabinet. He created the U.S. Navy, nominated the first Supreme Court Justice, and established the dollar as America’s official currency.
3
He supported the Bill of Rights, which was ratified during his presidency, meaning that it was approved by the states.
George Washington wanted to unify the country into a single entity rather than simply an alliance of states. Washington was a talented administrator and regularly consulted with his cabinet.
He supported the establishment of the first national bank of the United States. This was very controversial, and there was much fighting between Alexander Hamilton, the Secretary of the Treasury, and Thomas Jefferson, the Secretary of State. Hamilton believed in a strong national government with a national bank, whereas Jefferson believed the states should direct the government.
Let’s Reflect
Have you ever tried to set an example for others? If so, what did you do to set an example?
