I've just experienced an illustrative example of exactly why I wanted to go back to the beginning of recorded history and explore the underpinnings of American history after I first read the abridged version of George Washington some 15 years ago. I wanted to acquire a deeper understanding of exactly how America came to be, even if that meant a 15 year tangent in historical reading.
Volume III describes in detail one of the earliest sparks of the American revolution, that of the announcement of the Stamp Act in 1765. For the first time England imposed a direct tax on the American colonies without allowing the colonies any voice in the decision.
When the House of Burgesses of Virginia deliberated its response to the English Crown, a young lawyer named Patrick Henry spoke colorfully about the unconstitutionality of the Stamp Act, the tyranny it represented, and the enslavement it would bring for the American colonies. He concluded his fiery speech with the following outcry:
"Tarquin and Caesar each had his Brutus, Charles the First his Cromwell, and George the Third..."
"Treason!" shouted the Speaker of the House, before Patrick finished the sentence.
Patrick paused, then wisely concluded with "and George the Third may profit by their example!"
This was an epochal moment in American history, perhaps the exact moment in time that America decided to challenge the British Empire, come hell or high water.
Without my 15 year detour to explore history from its beginnings I could not have understood Patrick's references or comprehended the boldness it actually took to challenge Great Britain of the 18th century.
I would not have know who Tarquin was, nor why he and Caesar each had their Brutus. I wouldn't have know whom Charles the First or Cromwell were or their relation to one another. I might not have know who George the Third was and I certainly wouldn't have had the full understanding of just how powerful Great Britain was at that exact moment in history.
I'm SO glad that I took the 15 year detour. I'm so much more prepared to fully understand American history now than I ever could have been when I first attempted to do so.
Sometimes the difficult road is so much richer.
Volume III was terrific as anticipated, covering the larger part of Washington's life as a young-to-middle aged farmer, the period when he really learned how to farm while working assiduously to acquire lands on the growing American frontiers. The book concludes with the start of the actual Revolution, with Washington's assignation to the Continental Congress and ultimate election as the Commander In Chief to challenge the British forces and their occupation of Boston. As the book winds down, the Revolution is just getting into high gear, what you might call the "meat" of the story.
Washington had attained wealth and reputation before earning the title of Commander in Chief. But it's interesting to note that his reputation clearly exceeded the reality of his wealth and military experience, and he knew it. The younger Washington, who concerned himself so much with the attainment of power, glory and honor, now meets with the mature Washington who understands the awesomeness of the task in front of him and his shortcomings in undertaking it. Upon the appointment Washington responded with the following:
"Mr. President, Tho' I am truly sensible of the high Honour done me, in this Appointment, yet I feel great distress, from a consciousness that my abilities and military experience may not be equal to the extensive and important Trust: However, as the Congress desire it, I will enter upon the momentous duty, and exert every power I possess in their service, and for support of the glorious cause. I beg they will accept my most cordial thanks for this distinguished testimony of their approbation.
"But, lest some unlucky event should happen, unfavourable to my reputation, I beg it may be remembered, by every Gentleman in the room, that I, this day, declare with the utmost sincerity, I do not think myself equal to the Command I am honored with."
Washington has matured indeed. As Volume III concludes the worries of a new nation - as yet undeclared - rest on the shoulders of this giant.
No comments:
Post a Comment