George Washington decides not to become president.

Of course George Washington was the first president (and turning down to be king), but if he didn't want to be who would take his place? Would it even be a presidency then?
 
John Adams would probably be the first president.

However, things would be a lot worse. Washington's decisions, like making a cabinet, or stepping down after two terms, would not be in place. Washington was also the hero of the nation, and had many fans, so we could see a worse Whiskey Rebellion with Adams as commander-in-chief. Such problems with his presidency lead to an earlier alien and sedition acts, and will make the role of president an unlikable position. I think things would be more unstable in the young republic.
 
Washington set a presadent for presidents. He basically set the standard of a president form that era to today, I think that former American ambassidor to France would make a good president, he was great in gathering support for the American cause.

Another good statesman that could be a good Governor of America is Poor Richard (Benjamin Franklin), he did alot for his country as well.

<sarcasm> Than there is of course Benedict Arnold, or General Howe. </sarcasm>
 
Top