In Honor of a Great President
Shortly after noon on April 30th, 1789, our nation inaugurated General George Washington as our first President, in New York City. Not only was it an incredible moment in the history of the world, but it was also one that Americans of all generations would be wise never to forget.
George Washington was the preeminent leader of America’s founding generation, shortcomings and all. In the election of 1788-89, He was elected by a margin no other president has since eclipsed. Although he was far from a perfect human being, none of us are, he lived in an era that allowed for the horrible evil of slavery, of which he also participated.
Not only should modern historians draw attention to his failings, but they, and we, would be dangerously short-sighted to forget the unique aspects of his legacy that helped establish the greatest nation on earth.
In his inaugural address, among many noteworthy comments, he credited God, in helping establish this nation, a sentiment we must never forget. He stated, “It would be peculiarly improper to omit in this first official Act, my fervent supplications to that Almighty Being who rules over the Universe, who presides in the Councils of Nations, and whose providential aids can supply every human defect, that his benediction may consecrate to the liberties and happiness of the People of the United States..."
However, I have often thought that one single act by George Washington was not only his greatest gift to our nation, but one that would later profoundly help the framers of our beloved Constitution. A few years earlier, General Washington resigned his commission to congress, perhaps the most important moment, in American history.
It took place on December 23rd, 1783, and was captured by John Trumbull, in his famous painting that hangs in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol building, and also used in this post. In so doing, he personified ‘what it looks like’ to live within the constraints of a form of government based on God-given liberties, the ability of a free people to govern themselves, and a limit on the power of that government, and those serve in it.
Most, in similar circumstances throughout the course of world history, went on to become kings, tyrants, dictators, despots, and often destroyed the nation they had just led. Not George Washington. The most important leader in American history walked away from power. When he did so, he entrusted his fellow citizens with the ability to govern themselves and to be able to create and sustain the most amazing form of government the world has ever known.
Today, April 30th, 2021, and many presidents later, we would do well to recall the words and actions of President Washington. Take time this weekend to read the words he spoke 232 years ago, but also taking time to smile, as you start the day, to remember a very special day in New York City, in honor of a great president.