Golden Nuggets from U. S. History

The Blue Quill Series
Concord Learning Systems

---

Washington Refuses Offer to Become
"King of the United States"

After winning the Revolutionary War, many of Washington's most senior officers simply believed that the natural order of events was to decide who would become King of the new country. They consulted with civilian leaders and concluded that Washington was the clear choice.

When they approached Washington with this "good" news he was appalled but did not react in anger. Instead, he tactfully suggested that the populace would not accept the idea of a King of America. The officers countered that with such a large army in place they could easily overcome public opposition.

Washington's skill as a leader is clear because within a few months he and his officers retired from the army, ending the idea of a "King of the United States."

Philosophos Historia