The Man Who Would Be King: General George Washington

Now, this is something that impressed me with his decision. George Washington was well-liked by the people which included those he commanded in the Continental Army. It was after the Revolutionary War when Americans were hesitant about self-governing. Colonel Lewis Nicola had sent a letter to George Washington in May 1782 suggesting that George Washington use his army to rule as the king of the United States.

General George Washington replied with:

"With a mixture of great surprise and astonishment I have read with attention the sentiments you have submitted to my perusal. Be assured Sir, no occurrence in the course of the war has given me more painful sensations than your information of there being such ideas existing in the army as you have expressed, [which are] big with the greatest mischiefs that can befall my country. If I am not deceived in the knowledge of myself, you could not have found a person to whom your schemes are more disagreeable...Let me conjure you then, if you have any regard for your country-concern for yourself or posterity- or respect for me, to banish these thoughts from your mind."

King George had commented that if Washington had voluntarily given up power, then he truly would be the greatest man on Earth. He could've ruled America but he put his country first.

I am quite impressed with his response. Though as we know now with centuries of collected knowledge, that ruling is a very difficult role. Yes, you get a lot of benefits and luxuries but how long can you survive to enjoy any of it? We have records of some ruling nobles only living days, hours to minutes. It really is more of a hassle than you think unless you are gifted with applicable skills and gifts. Otherwise, it's better to create a nation that can be self-sustainable and be able to stand on its own against foreign attacks.