General George Washington's The Reluctant President

General George Washington had long since retired public life when he was elected the first president of the United States. Based on the account of “The Reluctant President”, Washington was most likely to be a humble and fair president. He consistently resisted praise or grandeur celebration on his behalf, readily defended his motivations as president, and took care to set a clear precedent for the future. Washington was quoted as saying, “after this is over, I hope you will give yourself no further trouble,” when he was first received in Wall Street. He accepted the immediate celebration, but wanted no more. This implies that in his future, George would do without unnecessary government spending for itself. He would not be led to pride or
a sense of tyranny, and instead would focus on the people, “as the affection of [his] fellow-citizens is all the guard [he wanted].” Defending his future with his past, Washington declared his purpose was to help the American citizens, just as he had in battle. He was very opposed to being seen as greedy, and made it his duty to let it be known that he was not-and would never be- seeking praise or wealth. Although his original inaugural address had been vetoed, its contents suggested he would be a steadfast, humble leader in the future. It was important to George Washington that the states leave the British world behind and build a new American way. George recognized that as the first federal executive, he was being looked upon to lead the way. He took care to found America’s beginning on true principles so that the country post-Washington might follow in his footsteps. Congress sat before him rather than standing as was accustomed in England; executive and legislative branches were equal. Because of this initial start as President, George Washington would continue to be patriotic and true to his country.