10. Stepping Down—A Final Gamble for Democracy
At the conclusion of the Revolutionary War, General George Washington’s voluntary resignation as commander-in-chief was a bold departure from political norms. On December 23, 1783, he addressed the Continental Congress in Annapolis, Maryland, stating, “Having now finished the work assigned to me, I retire from the great theatre of action; and bidding an affectionate farewell to this august body, under whose orders I have so long acted, I here offer my commission, and take my leave of all the employments of public life.” (mountvernon.org) This unprecedented act relinquished substantial power, risking potential instability but reinforcing the principle of civilian control over the military and setting a precedent for future democratic governance. (history.com)
