III. Washington’s Presidency

A. Choosing the President 1.Picking the President – 11 states send electors to vote – April 6, 1789: Congress declares George Washington President

2.Washington’s Feeling on Presidency – Was reluctant to become president – Did not want to be dragged into political fights – Took job b/c he thought it was his duty

3.What to call him – Some said “His Excellency” – Others thought that sounded to much like a king – No kings in a Democracy – Chose the simple title of “Mr. President”

B. Setting Precedents 1.Washington’s Cabinet – Organize Executive branch – Congress creates executive departments (later called “the cabinet”) – Each specializes in a specific area Secretary of Treasury: Hamilton Secretary of State: Jefferson

2.Establishing Federal Courts – Constitution did not specify the # or locations of courts – Sept 1789: Judiciary Act Passed – Creates a federal court system w/ 3 levels Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, District Courts – John Jay = 1 st Chief Justice of the Supreme Court

C. Whiskey Rebellion 1.Tax on Whiskey – March 1791: Congress passes tax – To help pay debt 2.Protests – “Whiskey Boys” upset about tax – Tar and Feather tax collectors – Declare a Rebellion against the Govt

3.Government Response – Seen as threat to National Govt – Nov. 1794: Washington leads 10,000 soldiers to Western Pennsylvania – Rebels fled to the country side – Rebellion ends w/o a battle

D. Washington’s Farewell 1.Only 2 terms – Did not run for 3 rd term – Showed he was no King and the people had the power

2.Farewell Address a)Warns about Dangers to the Nation Debt Dangerous Foreign Alliances Political Divisions at home b)Advice Government should not borrow money US should avoid permanent alliances No political parties b/c disputes between political groups weakens administration