Existing comment:
Washington Stands Down:
A triumphant general in Washington's position might have tried to seize power, but Washington returned to private life.
On December 23, 1783, Washington surrendered his commission as general and commander in chief. Like many Americans, he saw himself and his army as agents of the Continental Congress. During the war, he deferred to its directives even when he disagreed with them.
At war's end, he appeared before the Congress meeting in Annapolis, Maryland, and resigned. Per order of Congress, he signaled his deference to the members by bowing; in return, they denoted their authority by only lifting their hats. Washington then bid them farewell and returned to his farm. |