As we arrive at our 238th celebration of our Independence, it
is good to reflect on the history of that time. George Washington played a
pivotal role in the forming of our nation. He led the Continental Army in six
long years of fighting from Trenton to Yorktown where it all ended. In 1783 the
war with England was finally over, but the mood of the Continental Army was one
of discontent. Congress was bankrupt and unable to pay the soldiers for their
long years of service. As a result, some officers threatened tyranny if the
army was not paid. On March 16, the officers were gathered at Newburg, New York
where an anonymous letter was being circulated that proposed that Washington be
crowned king. The letter threatened to disband the army at the threat of any
arising war or maintain the army in peace to persuade Congress to fulfill its
obligations. Washington addressed the rebels with these words:
If peace takes place, never sheathe your swords says he, until you have
obtained full and ample justice; this dreadful alternative, of either deserting
our country in the extremist hour of her distress or turning our arms against
it (which is the apparent object, unless Congress can be compelled into instant
compliance), has something so shocking in it that humanity revolts at the idea.
My God! What can this writer have in view, by recommending such measures? Can
he be a friend to the army? Can he be a friend to this country? Rather, is he
not an insidious foe?...Why, then, should we distrust [the Congress]? And, in
consequence of that distrust, adopt measures which may cast a shade over that
glory which has been so justly acquired; and tarnish the reputation of an army
which is celebrated through all Europe, for its fortitude and patriotism? And
for what is this done? To bring the object we seek nearer? No! Most certainly,
in my opinion, it will cast it at a greater distance.[i]
On that day there was a powerful temptation to accept the coronation of a
new King of America, except that Washington would have none of it. It is
staggering to think that the future of our country depended on the character of
one man that day. King George III couldn’t believe that Washington had refused
the throne that was offered to him. He responded by saying he is the “the
greatest man in the world.”
Washington served two terms and could have served as many as he liked,
but surrendered power after his second term, and John Adams was inaugurated. As
we consider how proud we are to be Americans on this Fourth of July, let us
also be thankful for those like Washington who made the existence of this
nation possible.
[i]
Eric Metaxas, Seven Men and the Secret of
Their Greatness, Thomas Nelson, Dallas, TX, 2013, p. 21.
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