How Did George Washington Impact Society

On April 30, 1789, George Washington took office as the First President of the United States with hopes of expanding upon the nation’s principles. He immediately assumed his responsibilities and built the nation to become the fantastic country it is today. At the end of his presidency, feelings of despondency and dejection filled the country, for humble Washington shaped the role and function as the leader of America. Based on his presidency alone, Washington influenced the lives of many, as all citizens looked up to him as an inspiration. Initially, he set precedents for future presidents to follow, keeping the nation civilized for years and years. To add, he believed in neutrality, which would be helpful to the Americans. Essentially, he

During the Revolutionary War, America was in turmoil, for debts needed to be paid and individuals did not have homes. After accepting office, Washington vowed to stay neutral, so that the nation would not become involved in hostility. In other words, he wished to create peace throughout the states, and therefore issued a state of neutrality throughout America. Neutrality would hinder the formation of disagreements with other nations and/or disputes between citizens. Expanding upon that, Washington warned his fellow citizens of forming permanent alliances, as that would only bring trouble to the country that thrived on peace and tranquility. According to Washington's Proclamation of Neutrality, “Whereas it appears that a state of war exists between Austria, Prussia, Sardinia, Great Britain, and the United Netherlands of the one art of France on the other, and the duty and the interest of the United States require that with sincerity and good faith adopt a pursue a conduct friendly and impartial toward the belligerent powers: I have therefore thought fit by these presents to declare the disposition of the United States to observe the conduct aforesaid towards those powers respectively, and to exhort and warn the citizens of the United States carefully to avoid all acts and proceedings whatsoever which may in any manner tend to contravene such disposition.” (Washington, George. Proclamation of

His main objective was to have and maintain a prepared military. Due to his prior experience as General of the Revolutionary War, he knew that having supplies and strategic plans would be beneficial in defeating the other side. Therefore, he established a uniform law that allowed militiamen to complete training in order to fight effectively. To Washington, being prepared for war was vital for preserving peace throughout the nation. Although he maintained a neutral state in other fights and disputes, Washington believed in having a powerful military for the prosperity of his own country. Additionally, he instituted the process of naturalization or immigration. While initiating customs and traditions, Washington understood that people from other countries would like to reside in a land built upon freedom. So, he declared an organized system where people could become American citizens. With a sufficient arrangement, citizens’ records could easily be transferred overseas and reviewed in order for immigrants to live fulfilled lives in America. To add, Washington believed in uniformity in the country, for minor disagreements would be hindered by laws. His idea to make money, weights, and measures equal throughout the country benefited citizens who visit states different from their own. In Washington’s First Annual Address, he states, “Among the many interesting objects which will