Washington urged Congress to add a Bill of Rights to the Constitution that would express "a reverence for the characteristic rights of freemen and a regard for the public harmony…" Although not required by the Constitution, every president since Washington has followed his example and delivered an inaugural address.
Chat with our AI personalities
In Washington's inaugural address he wishes to lay the national government on a foundation of a free government. He wants to lay down principles of private morality and he wants to lay down a free government that is respected by the citizens and the world. Washington is trying to set a precedent of being a good, honest leader who has good morals and respects the will of the people; while the people respect him. He wants to see this country prosper and grow because he loves his country. Also, he wants to see the preservation of liberty to continue into the future of the United States.
He made a relatively famous speech at Valley Forge to rally his troops in a bitter winter to continue their fight for freedom.
That was George Washington's second inaugural speech in 1793. Click on the "Second George Washington Inaugural Speech" link below to read it. George Washington's 2nd inaugural address was the shortest in history.
on this date George Washington delivered his first inaugural address and it took place in New York City.
1789-1797
Marquis de Lafayette
Flowering Dogwood