Would George Washington Approve of Todays Modern USA?

The Transition of a Visionary Leader to Modernity: How Would George Washington View Today’s USA?

Introduction

Getting into the head of any person from the 18th century is no easy feat. However, for George Washington, the first President of the United States, his legacy still resonates even today. This article delves into how George Washington, with his integral values and beliefs, would perceive the modern USA.

Understanding George Washington’s Values

Washington's foremost public values were concern for the unity and stability of the nation. He valued restraint in the use of presidential power, advocated for a peaceful transfer of power, and even freed his slaves upon the death of his wife. These principles reflect the core values of the modern constitutional framework, which he himself helped to establish.

Abolition of Slavery and State Devastation

Washington would likely be happy to see the eventual abolition of slavery. His will freed all his slaves, an action that few wealthy slaveowners took at the time. However, he would be saddened by the devastation of his home state, Virginia, to achieve this end. This reflects a deep personal and public sense of duty and sacrifice for the greater good, a principle that transcends time.

Restraint in Presidential Power

Washington’s supreme public value was restraint in the use of presidential power. He famously refused to run for a third term and insisted on a peaceful transfer of power. This makes him a hero of many in modern politics who value democratic protocols. He would likely disapprove of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's decision to run for a third and fourth term, which some believe was due to the exceptional circumstances, but would certainly not approve of any suggestion to abrogate the Constitution.

Judicial Review and Constitutional Amendments

What Washington would think about judicial review, a concept that evolved after his death, is still largely unanswered. Washington believed in the Constitution and supported the role of the Supreme Court, but he would likely support judicial review only if the Constitution could frequently be amended to correct the Court, an action that has happened rarely.

Superficial Reflections and Realities

George Washington would be shocked to learn that the United States of America is on the cusp of becoming a nation with a people-of-color majority. His observation might well be, “To think I fought the British for you shits! I'm going back to my tomb and locking the door. Fucking MAGA arseholes.” This reflects a complex mix of nostalgia, pride, and disappointment.

Modern USA from a Historical Perspective

From a historical perspective, George Washington would likely have a mixed view of modern America. He would be impressed by the stability and longevity of the Constitution and the economic prosperity and technological advancements in the U.S. However, he might express concern over the increasing partisan divide and the polarization of political parties, as warned against in his Farewell Address.

He would appreciate the federal system of government that balances power between state and federal authorities but might also express worry over the increasing power of the federal government and the implications for state rights. He would likely support the nation's economic dynamism while also advocating for responsible governance.

Washington's views on civil rights and equality would be complex. As a product of his time and a slaveowner himself, his legacy regarding equality is complicated. However, he would probably be surprised by the progress in civil rights and social justice but could also reflect on the ongoing struggles and divisions in American society regarding race, gender, and class.

Overall, he would recognize both the achievements and the challenges that modern America faces. He would emphasize the importance of unity, civic virtue, and responsible governance, values that are as crucial today as they were in his time.