Monthly Archives: December 2013

While on horseback visiting his farms on Thursday, December 12th, it began to snow, hail, and finally rain on Washington.  When he arrived back at home, he found he had guests waiting and did not wish for them to wait … Continue reading →

After retiring from public service, Washington drew up a new will.  It granted immediate freedom to his personal slave William Lee along with an annuity of $30 for the rest of his life.   He also declared that upon the … Continue reading →

Washington’s presidential accomplishments as described by Ron Chernow: “Washington’s catalog of accomplishments was simply breathtaking.  he had restored American credit and assumed state debt; created a bank, a mint, a coast guard, a customs service, and a diplomatic corps; introduced … Continue reading →

Washington’s second term as President was even more contentious and stressful than the first.  The gap between Federalists and Republicans continued to widen as news of the French revolution reached American shores.  The Federalists were alarmed at what they considered … Continue reading →

The Federalists vs. The Republicans AKA the Hamiltonians vs. the Jeffersonians Washington opposed political parties.  He felt they were unnecessarily divisive and never claimed a party for his own.   Two of his most brilliant cabinet members, however, soon gained … Continue reading →

Even after eight years of war with the British, Washington knew that an alliance with Great Britain would be most prudent.  A British diplomat Major George Beckwith echoed Washington’s feelings when he told him, “I have always preferred a connection … Continue reading →

Washington and Hamilton both felt strongly that all debt incurred by states during the Revolutionary War, should be consolidated on the national level.  There reasoning was thus: 1.  It would help establish unity among the states. 2.  It could more … Continue reading →

As Gouverneur Morris observed, Washington knew “how best to use the rays” of genius of his colleagues.  Washington was still keenly aware of his own lack of education, and chose to surround himself with cabinet members who were educated, intelligent, … Continue reading →

Washington appointed David Humphreys as a diplomat to Portugal without legislative approval.  The Constitution was silent on the matter, so Washington took the power for the executive branch.  Afterall, the executive branch was always in session, but the legislative branch … Continue reading →

Washington had a running debate with the chief steward who was in charge of the Presidential kitchen.  Washington continually reprimanded him for allowing such extravagance at the President’s table.  The steward proudly declared, “Well he may discharge me.  He may … Continue reading →