answersLogoWhite

0

It has been said his single greatest contribution was that he chose to step down after two terms. When he announced he would not seek a third term, Britain's King George III did not believe any man who had the loyalty of the entire army would willingly surrender power. "if he does it, " he commented, "he will be the greatest man who ever lived." Washington could have been named King, could have become President for life... could have set himself up to rule militarily... But he chose to set the example of the president being a temporary office, and was the first world leader to organize the peaceful transfer of power thru rule of law. For over a hundred years after his terms of office, subsequent presidents honored Washington's example and refused to run for a third term of office, despite the fact that the Constitution did not impose any limit to presidential terms. Only after FDR won 4 consecutive terms was an amendment passed limiting the office of president to two terms. Washington essentially defined the office of the presidency.

User Avatar

Wiki User

16y ago

Still curious? Ask our experts.

Chat with our AI personalities

MaxineMaxine
I respect you enough to keep it real.
Chat with Maxine
LaoLao
The path is yours to walk; I am only here to hold up a mirror.
Chat with Lao
ProfessorProfessor
I will give you the most educated answer.
Chat with Professor
More answers

war, president, his name, nickname, and war strategies

User Avatar

Wiki User

13y ago
User Avatar

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: What are five reasons that George Washington is famous?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp