The greatest man who ever lived

George Washington, 1795
Originally uploaded by Maulleigh

Spare a moment to remember that this is one of the most important dates in American history.

The British troops left New York in early December, leaving the American army in control of the colonies. All over the world the usual result of such a situation was the head of the military declaring himself king.

On December 23 commander George Washington appeared before Congress to resign his commission and go back to being a private citizen. And ever since then in our country the military has been the servant of civilian rule.

Supposedly when King George III heard about this he said "If this is true he is the greatest man who ever lived."

Thanks to Millard Fillmore's Bathtub for the reminder.