Lesson 14: Washington, the first president.

Explain how Washington Was a visionary.

As commander of the Continental army, he understood that the war would not be the work of a day and that it would require longterm vision. As president, he gave each of his cabinet officers a vision too large for any of them To handle alone.

What specific challenges did Washington face as president?

He faced the ratification of the bill of rights, potential wars with either France or Britain, mounting debt, the whiskey rebellion, and divisive political parties.

How did Washington keep his cabinet together?

He gave them immense tasks that none could accomplish on their own and he gave them a vision beyond any of their own visions. He served as a steady influence and mediator for all of them and provided a worldview that incorporated each of their's.

Why did Washington not desire the presidency?

He much preferred home and was content to submit to the authority of others. Like famous founders, he did not seek power.

Describe Washington's home and family life.

He was married to Martha Dandridge Custis, a wealthy widow and mother of two children. Washington developed a sincere love and fondness for her as can be seen in their letters. He adopted her children as his own and opened his home to his nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He was deliberate about making Mount Vernon a place for family and for hospitality and personally designed much of the space himself.

In what ways were Hamilton and Jefferson divided?

Jefferson was a Democrat Dash Republican who was for France, a decentralized government, and agrarianism Hamilton was a federalist who was for Britain, a centralized government, and industrialism.

List and briefly describe the position and character of three of Washington's lieutenants.

John Adams: served as vice president and was an intellectual who resented his position and often correct peoples grammar. He was formal and was not the best of leaders. Edmund Rudolph: served as Attorney General and was a man of the people who was related by marriage to Thomas Jefferson but was allied to Alexander Hamilton politically. Henry Knox: served as secretary of war and was a famous war veteran, a man of action, and one who often lost his temper. Samuel Osgood: served as postmaster general and was a brilliant entrepreneur and administrator who organized the Postal Service and laid the foundation for the first mint. Thomas Jefferson: served as secretary of state and was a gifted writer and speaker from Virginia. Alexander Hamilton: served as secretary of the treasury and had served with distinction as an aid to Washington.

Why did King George III call Washington the American Joshua?

King George III called Washington the American Joshua after Washington gave up his sword and retired from commanding the army. Surrendering such power at the height of his popularity made king George realize that Washington was a man of real character and of a higher allegiance than to himself, much like Joshua.

Explain how Washington was a commander.

Washington knew how to delegate task, rely upon his lieutenants' advice, and encourage the men under his command. He commanded respect from his sheer presence and character.

Explain how Washington was a steady operator.

Washington was a man who loved the every day things of home and family. As a commander, he knew when to retreat and had steady nerves in battle despite risking his own life. As president, he had a remarkable ability to unite different factions and mediate between varied parties. He was also one who consistently resisted revolution and submitted to authority.