The average constitution of a nation only lasts 20 years on average before being discarded or grossly remade.
It is common for nations to go through several constitutions upon finding one that lasts.
Our constitution survived when so many others failed, because George Washington turned down enormous power and prestige (that kings craved) in favor of a presidency that serves the people. When George Washington finished winning the War for independence, many kings and monarchs around the world were shocked that Washington simply stepped down and retired on his farm. Monarchies expected him to ride the victory to power and take control of the nation he just liberated. King George of Britain once joked that if Washington did not take power after winning the war, he would surely be the greatest man in the world.
Washington refused titles of “His Highness” and “His Majesty”.
He refused royal pageantry at his inauguration.
He rejected early plans to make the White House a palace.
He declined to be paid as president. By the way, he also refused to be paid as General of the Continental Army.
Despite massive popularity, he refused to serve a third term to curb against dynasties.
Without Washington, we would not only have not won the war of Independence, but we wouldn’t have his vital efforts to set the tone, character and boundaries of a president. To us, he is one of the greatest people in human history, and worth remembering this America 250th.
