American Minute - Nov. 2 - General Washington's Farewell Orders

American Minute
with
Bill Federer

After defeating the British, General George Washington was so popular that many urged him to declare himself king.

Instead, on NOVEMBER 2, 1783, from his Rock Hill headquarters near Princeton, the General issued his Farewell Orders:

"Before the Commander in Chief takes his final leave of those he holds most dear, he wishes to indulge himself a few moments in calling to mind a slight review of the past...

The singular interpositions of Providence in our feeble condition were such, as could scarcely escape the attention of the most unobserving; while the unparalleled perseverance of the Armies of the United States, through almost every possible suffering and discouragement for the space of eight long years, was little short of a standing miracle."

Washington continued:

"To the Armies he has so long had the honor to Command, he can only again offer in their behalf his recommendations to their grateful country, and his prayers to the God of Armies.

May ample justice be done then here, and may the choicest of Heaven's favours, both here and thereafter, attend those who, under Divine auspices, have secured innumerable blessings for others."

A month later, Washington bid a tearful farewell to his officers at Fraunces Tavern in New York.