RateItAll: The Opinion Network

Today is December 14. On this date in history, in 1799, George Washington, born in 1732, died.

I have stated this before, and I must repeat. No George Washington, no United States.

As the first President of the United States, George Washington's domestic initiatives have had a lasting impact on our country. His bold leadership during a time of uncertainty is partly responsible for the survival of our country. As President, Washington got the ball rolling. He created the first four executive departments, and appointed competant men to head up each department. Washington strove for ideological balance in these appointments, thus augmenting their strength and credibility. Washington signed into law the Bill of Rights (the first ten amendments to the Constitution) designed to protect the civil liberties of U.S. citizens. Washington also signed the Judiciary Act of 1789, which established a Supreme Court and a system of district courts. Washington also responded to two domestic crises with boldness and dignity. In 1791, an American force had been defeated by a Native American uprising in present-day Ohio, which killed over 600 American soldiers. The President authorized a military campaign against a coalition of tribes. After constructing a chain of forts, American troops crushed the Indians in the Battle of Fallen Timbers. The attack on the Native Americans was justified in my opinion, as the Indian tribes were launching attacks on American militiamen in Ohio. The second crisis was a rebellion in western Pennsylvania in protest of the tax on whiskey. Washington was personally alarmed by the Whiskey Rebellion, viewing it as a threat to the nation's credibility. Washington personally oversaw the buildup of troops to keep order. The insurrection collapsed quickly with little violence, and the resistance movements disbanded. Later, Washington pardoned the men convicted of treason in the matter. In the final analysis, Washington's leadership during his tenure in office contributed directly to the success and survival of our young country. Washington, The Father of Our Country, deserves credit for having faith in an uncertain cause and applying that faith to ensure the survival and success of our nation.

He didn't want to be President. That is the mark of a great President.

Have you noticed how all US presidents whose names were George have been great men?