The problem of US nationalism can be divided into two main categories: the lack of past to rely on and the internal divisions of the country. George Washington became a national icon that encompassed all of America. Instead of history or tradition, his identity and character was enough to be the base for the country’s identity. Furthermore, George Washington became a person all citizens could identify and use to promote for their own campaign.
George Washington’s image and action set the standard for many fields. For example, he defined his office by his humble disposition as the first President. Reluctant to accept, humble to use, and willing to relinquish his power, Washington further defined America as the country for the people by limiting his own time in power. Never portraying himself as a despotic king or tyrant, Washington displayed a sense of humility that would be admired (and expected in the traditional 2 year term) for many years to come. But it wasn’t just the government that George redefined. He became a moral leader through the spread of civil texts. His reverence was comparable to the fame and renown of a religious figure. The stories of his honesty (ex: the cherry tree) and pure character became the standard for children for generations. By setting a bar in government in his life and a moral standard after his passing, George Washington gave a legacy to his country and its people that would later be incorporated into US nationalism.
But the lack of history of precendence wasn’t the only problem facing US nationalism. Internally, there were splits that threatened to dissolve the nation. Among these were the Federalists and the Republicans. George Washington’s legacy managed to bind these groups with his famous Farewell Address and non-partisan image. His Farewell Address warned the common people of the dangers of division and the consequences should it progress. By demonstrating that he wasn’t a part of any group, George Washington could be used and interpreted by both Federalist and Republicans to support their views. Another internal divison that pervaded the nation at the time was of its stance to slavery. Washington had owned more than 300 slaves but emancipated all of them on his deathbed. Abolitionist were quick to point out that their first President was promoting the ideals of life, liberty and pursuit of happiness even for slaves. However, pro-slave holders could also point out the familial connection between George Washington and his slaves and how both parties benefited. Despite their different views, both parties found common ground in looking toward Washington as their models.
As a nation found on radical principles that upset all ideas of divine right, America was a first with little precedent to rely on. George Washington became that base for which the government and citizen would come to emulate. He would also serve to be common root for which all Americans, Federalist or Republican, Abolitionist or slaveholder, would try to identify with. In the first decades of America it would be no exaggeration for George Washinton to be named Everyone’s Hero.