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Collection Reference Number GLC02437.09419
From Archive Folder The Henry Knox Papers [0088] March-April 1789 
Title George Washington to Henry Knox about his apprehensions on becoming President
Date 1 April 1789
Author Washington, George (1732-1799)  
Recipient Knox, Henry  
Document Type Correspondence
Content Description One of Washington's most famous letters, written shortly before going to New York for his inauguration. Washington writes about his apprehensions on assuming the presidency: "my movements to the chair of Government will be accompanied with feelings not unlike those of a culprit who is going to the place of his execution: So unwilling am I, in the evening of a life nearly consumed in public cares, to quit a peaceful abode for an Ocean of difficulties, without that competency of political skill- abilities & inclination which is necessary to manage the helm..." Promises integrity and firmness at his post.
Subjects President  Inauguration  Mount Vernon  Government and Civics  
People Knox, Henry (1750-1806)  Washington, George (1732-1799)  
Place written Mount Vernon, Virginia
Theme Government & Politics; Creating a New Government; The Presidency
Sub-collection The Henry Knox Papers
Additional Information Washington was sworn in as the nation's first president 30 April 1789. Signer of the U.S. Constitution.
Copyright The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History
Module Settlement, Commerce, Revolution and Reform: 1493-1859
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