American History Hit What If George Washington Became King?
Oct 23, 2025
Michael Hattem, historian and author, dives into a fascinating counterfactual: What if George Washington had become king? He explores Washington's immense popularity post-war and the turbulent reality of his presidency. Hattem discusses the reasons behind the failure of the Articles of Confederation and Washington's decision to step down, emphasizing his legacy of avoiding monarchy. The conversation touches on the potential chaos of succession and how America might have looked under a royal system, all while reinforcing the democratic values Washington upheld.
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Two-Term Precedent Was Personal Not Principled
- Washington's decision to step down after two terms became a powerful precedent but originated from personal fatigue, not a deliberate plan to limit executive power.
- The 22nd Amendment formalized a practice that evolved from Washington's choice and later reactions to FDR.
War Glory Carried His Presidency
- Washington's presidential popularity owed heavily to his Revolutionary War leadership rather than his contested administrations.
- Michael Hattem argues many Americans were unhappy with Washington in the 1790s due to emerging partisan divides.
Republicanism Shaped Revolutionary Fears
- Colonial republicanism valued civic virtue and vigilance against concentrated power more strongly than English political memory suggested.
- The Revolution wasn't explicitly anti-monarchical in rhetoric; its critics targeted George III as the final tie to Britain.
