Get Out the Vote!
232 years ago today, on November 3, 1873, the Continental Army peacefully disbanded after successfully defeating the British and gaining independence for the Colonies. General George Washington presented his farewell address to his troops the day before, urging his soldiers to put down their arms and uniforms, and to take up the mantel of citizens:
[L]et a conscientiousness of their achievements and fame still unite the men, who composed them to honourable actions; under the persuasion that the private virtues of oeconomy [sic], prudence, and industry, will not be less amiable in civil life, than the more splendid qualities of valour, perseverance, and enterprise were in the Field.
According to myth, Washington did this after being offered a crown; refusing the opportunity to become America's first monarch. In fact, he was elected president and chose to serve only two terms, in spite of many begging him to remain in power, helping to ensure that America's fledgling democracy would continue and thrive.
That citizens would get to cast their votes to elect their leader was, forgive the pun, revolutionary. But, it would take another almost another 87 years before African Americans would be granted the right to vote under the 15th Amendment, and another 137 years before women would get the same under the 19th Amendment. Today is Election Day in an off year- typically the elections with the least participation by citizens. But many states have statewide and local races that will happen today, whether people choose to cast their ballots or not. Celebrate that citizenship that George Washington spoke of so fervently and that the Continental Army fought so hard to win. Exercise your right to vote, for all the men and women who were denied that voice. And most importantly, participate in your government, or you don't deserve to complain about it!