George Washington’s Birthday

Peale, Charles

George Washington at Princeton (1779)

Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts

Throughout history, military commanders who win great victories proclaim themselves supreme ruler. Think of Napoleon, or Caesars Julius and Augustus or Henrys 4 and 7. However, after winning a stunning victory over the British at Yorktown, then thwarting a conspiracy to over through congress, Washington resigned his commission.  His resignation shocked the world; including King George III, who reportedly said “If he does that, Washington will be the greatest man in the world.”

By 1787, the States were anything but united. Debt, arguments over state’s rights, trade and civil issues were ripping the country apart. When a convention was proposed to redefine the government, Washington was reluctant to attend, but friends convinced him to go. Washington stayed above the debate at the convention. He made no speeches, but he ensured the delegates were civil and on topic.

When the new government was formed, Washington was elected the first
President. The only president in history to receive 100% of the electoral votes; he did no campaigning nor had any party backing.

As President, Washington defined the role of the President. He felt Congress should make national policy; foreign policy became his major concern.  After two terms as President, Washington again shocked the world by stepping down, and showing that peaceful transfer of power was possible.

Washington’s Birthday was first celebrated in 1779 at the Raleigh Tavern in Williamsburg. After the Revolutionary War, balls and toasts honored the General’s birthday and his adopted granddaughter chose the date for her wedding.  In 1856, Massachusetts became the first state to recognize Washington’s Birthday.  In February 1862, Washington’s Farewell Address was read on the Senate floor, and has been every year since.  The day became a federal holiday in 1897 and a Flag Holiday in 1923.