George Washington: "Resignation Speech" | Speeches of Great Men

Many people believed that George Washington, who was then a major general and commander-in-chief, would follow in the footsteps of earlier world leaders and attempt to seize absolute power as the Revolutionary War came to an end. Some even hoped for him to do so in order for him to rule over a brand-new country. Washington was aware that such a step would jeopardize the fledgling republic's existence. Washington rejected the temptations of power and surrendered his position as Commander-in-Chief, looking to the Roman general Cincinnatus as an example.Choosing the right is almost never easy, and as Washington read his speech in front of the Continental Congress, the great statesman trembled so much that he had to hold the parchment with two hands to keep it steady. "The spectators all wept, and there was hardly a member of Congress who did not drop tears. His voice faltered and sank, and the whole house felt his agitation." When finished, Washington bolted from the door of the Annapolis State House, mounted his horse, and galloped away into the sunset.