Impact
George Washington left one of the most important legacies in world history. Among them was Washington's choice to relinquish power after eight years in office, a notion practically unheard of in history ("Biography of George"). His foresight was far-reaching as well. In a speech bidding farewell to the nation, he warned against entanglements with other countries and championed keeping American standards high ("George Washington"). After just three years in retirement, George caught a devastating cold that ended his life in December 1799 ("Biography of George"). Some historians believe inept doctors, in trying a bloodletting technique as a cure, released too much of Washington's blood and inadvertently caused his death (Carter 219). However, his legacy lives on.
Americans regard Washington as the "Father of His Country" for his bravery as a general and his fairness and fine example as president ("Biography.com Editors"). As a president who chose to relinquish power after two terms, he set a standard for all future presidents - indeed, most have followed Washington's lead in leaving office after eight years (Carter, 207). George was mindful that he must "set an example of fairness, prudence and integrity" as the young nation's first leader - qualities for which he is highly regarded to this day ("Biography of George"). Washington lives on not only in spirit - his name graces a state and our nation's capital, schools and towns are named after him, and his image appears on mountainsides and our American currency ("Biography.com Editors").