Why Washington Matters: Final.

Washington did not have a flare for theatrics like Robespierre or Cromwell.

He was aware of sentiment and aware of the public eye, however.  The Newburgh Conspiracy.  The officers of the U.S. army did not believe that they had gotten what was owed to them by Congress after the war.  The officers were ready to declare Congress null and void.  An anonymous letter was sent through the military establishment declaring a meeting to discuss military actions needed to abolish congress and install military rule in the United States.  It finally made its way to the desk of George Washington.  An unsigned letter, declaring intention to usurp the nation he fought so hard to build was seen as cowardice in Washington's eyes.  The nation was built by men who openly signed a letter in defiance of the most powerful nation, men who surely would be executed for their signatures.

 A new letter came to the officers asking them to instead meet 3 days later.  The highest ranking officer was to preside over the meeting, and notes were to be kept and sent to Washington, because he was not able to attend.  The officers met, and after the meeting started, George Washington himself walked through the doors and asked permission to speak.  The men in the audience all served under Washington in their younger years, and had enough respect for the decorated hero to let him speak at once.  Washington gave a short speech about patience and understanding, one that many witnesses say fell upon deaf ears as the officer's minds had already been made up.

After the speech, Washington then asked for permission to read a letter from a Congressman so that they may defend themselves.  The officers again agreed to let their military hero, their very ideal representation of an American, speak.  Washington unfurled the letter, but began to fumble a few of the words.  The officers could not make out what he was saying.  Finally Washington reached for a pair of glasses in his coat, and removed his hat so that he could wear them.  The officers in the room gasped at what they saw before them.  Washington looked upon the stunned audience and is reported to have said;

"Gentlemen, you will permit me to put on my spectacles, for I have not only grown gray but almost blind in the service of my country"

The officers no longer saw the strong general they had rode into war with those years ago during the revolution.  The imposing, over 6 foot tall general on horseback that road in amongst musket fire.  Now they saw a mere frail old man begging for peace.  It was like when a man first sees his aging father needing help to descend stairs, or a childhood sports hero no longer able to throw a ball.  Washington was mortal.  Many officers were ashamed for their conduct, a few openly cried.  The officers then unanimously voted to give The United States another chance and put their faith in the aged general.  Washington once again saved the country.

Have a happy 4th of July