Emily+-+GW

George Washington 2/22/1732-12/14/1799 Political party: Federalist Dates of terms: 1789-97 Vice President: John Adams (both terms)

Named the “Father of His Country”, George Washington was America’s first president. During his presidency not only were important political decisions made that affected our current government and foreign affairs, important inventions were made that drastically changed our way of life and economy. This stated how can he not receive an A?

Since he was the first, Washington’s main goal was to sort of get everything started off on the right foot. He had no precedents set which made the power a little unlimited. Washington strived to make the job unlike that of the English monarchs. One of the best ways he did this was to refuse to accept a third term, setting the stage for the unwritten rule for the two-term limit of a presidency.

The Battle of Fallen Timbers, fought by the Legion of the United States and a confederacy of native Americans who were led by Miami Chief Little Turtle. The American troops defeated the native Americans. This battle was so successful because it led to the Treaty of Greenville and it opened the Northwest Territory. This peace treaty was especially important because it laid out the definite boundary between Indian lands and those for settlement. The opening of the territory to immigration allowed the country to expand its borders, resulting in an increase in trade and commerce. In 1791, Congress put a tax on alcohol. This was the most negative action of Washington’s administration because it led to the Whiskey Rebellion, rebel farmers who rioted and attacked tax collectors.

George Washington influenced future presidents and the lives of Americans in many ways, good and bad. One bad way, being the Fugitive Slave Law of 1793. This law permitted slave catchers to capture a runaway slave in any state or territory and the only proof needed was for them to tell a federal or state judge that the person was an escaped slave. The slave in question was not promised a trial by jury, and the judge’s decision was final. This affected African American slaves in years to come greatly, being just a tiny part in the cruel treatment given to them.

America was better off at the end of Washington’s terms in office. The country was left feeling strong. Financially, a good system was set up for our country by Alexander Hamilton. Business was booming in the south and the north with the first American factories and then the invention of the cotton gin. Plus land had been won from the native Americans and Spain, expanding our borders. Again, how can Washington not receive an A?