You are George Washington. During your life, you served in the British army, surveyed western territories, lead the Continental Army during the War of Independence, and presided over the Philadelphia Convention which produced the United States Constitution. Privately, you are one of America’s largest land owners and you are one of the richest men in America. Your plantation is highly productive and serves as the lifeblood of your community. Because of your character and accomplishments, you are highly respected by everyone, including those who disagree with you. Recently, the Philadelphia Convention unanimously elected you to serve as the president of the United States. You are the first president, so every decision you make will set a precedence for all the presidents who serve after you. The following problems have arisen in the new republic. Carefully consider your options and make a wise decision, which should not be difficult for you… after all, you’re George Washington!

Define the authority of the federal government… You were elected president due to your ability to lead well, but the governing as president will be a huge task. You must operate the government smoothly and carry out the laws made by Congress. Things to consider:  You have many friends who are incredibly talented including Alexander Hamilton, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison.  The Constitution gives you the power to appoint officials to assist you in administering the government.  Trusting any one person to give you advice would be foolish. You need a group of trusted advisors. What will you do?

Defining the Authority of the Federal Government… Article III, section 1 of the Constitution prescribed that the "judicial power of the United States, shall be vested in one supreme Court," and such inferior courts as Congress saw fit to establish. It made no provision, though, for the composition or procedures of any of the courts, leaving this to Congress to decide. Things to consider:  The existence of a separate federal judiciary, or supreme court, had been controversial during the debates over the ratification of the Constitution.  Anti-Federalists think that the power of the judicial branch is a potential instrument of national tyranny against citizens.  Five of the ten amendments in the Bill of Rights, deal with judicial proceedings.  There are no courts that can judge disputes between states, between other nations and the United States, or interpret the Constitution when necessary. What will you do?

Foreign relations… The French Revolution began in 1789 when the French people ousted King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette. They abolished the monarchy and set up a republic. Violence ensued… the King and Queen were publicly executed by guillotine, and thousands of lives have been lost in riots and mayhem. Now England and France are at war. Things to Consider:  The United States received financial and military support from France; which made the Revolution a success.  Many American feel indebted to France for their help during the Revolution.  The new United States army is weak and small compared to the English army and navy.  Britain and France went to war in 1754 over colonial territories… the war lasted seven years and left both countries in debt. What will you do?

Create a stable economic system… You must stabilize the economy and strengthen American currency (money)! People’s livelihoods are depending on it. What should you do? Consider the following options: Things to consider:  The United States government has a Revolutionary War debt of $54 million dollars.  The 13 states owe an additional $24 million.  The national currency is worthless and your creditors will not accept it as payment.  Not every state holds the same amount of debt. Some think it’s unfair that some states must pay more, when they saw most of the fighting.  Alexander Hamilton is a genius when it comes to numbers and money; he’s also ambitious…  Most Americans drink whiskey as a small luxury after a hard day’s work.  The Constitution grants the federal government power to tax individuals.  American companies are having a hard time competing against goods imported from European companies. What will you do?

Political Divisions… You have been president for nearly eight years. It’s time for you to retire to the quiet life of your plantation. You are worried about troubles that may arise and threaten the nation once you leave office. Things to consider:  Thomas Jefferson and John Adams disagree on most domestic and foreign policy issues. They have formed groups to support them called the Democratic-Republicans and the Federalists.  The economic differences between the Northern and Southern states are increasingly causing issues, especially when it comes to tariffs and economic development.  You’ve been a model of civic virtue and you are still highly regarded by all Americans as a hero, a father, and a model of civic virtue. What will you do?