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For fear of an elective king : George Washington and the presidential title controversy of 1789

Title
For fear of an elective king : George Washington and the presidential title controversy of 1789 / Kathleen Bartoloni-Tuazon.
Author
Bartoloni-Tuazon, Kathleen.
Publication
  • Ithaca : Cornell University Press, 2014.
  • ©2014

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Available - Can be used on site. Please visit New York Public Library - Schwarzman Building to submit a request in person.

TextUse in library JFE 16-7069Schwarzman Building - Main Reading Room 315

Details

Description
x, 252 pages : illustrations; 25 cm
Summary
"In the spring of 1789, within weeks of the establishment of the new federal government based on the U.S. Constitution, the Senate and House of Representatives fell into dispute regarding how to address the president. Congress, the press, and individuals debated more than thirty titles, many of which had royal associations and some of which were clearly monarchical. For Fear of an Elective King is Kathleen Bartoloni-Tuazon's rich account of the title controversy and its meanings. The short, intense legislative phase and the prolonged, equally intense public phase animated and shaped the new nation's broadening political community. Rather than simply reflecting an obsession with etiquette, the question challenged Americans to find an acceptable balance between power and the people's sovereignty while assuring the country's place in the Atlantic world. Bartoloni-Tuazon argues that the resolution of the controversy in favor of the modest title of "President" established the importance of recognition of the people's views by the president and evidence of modesty in the presidency, an approach to leadership that fledged the presidency's power by not flaunting it. How the country titled the president reflected the views of everyday people, as well as the recognition by social and political elites of the irony that authority rested with acquiescence to egalitarian principles. The controversy's outcome affirmed the republican character of the country's new president and government, even as the conflict was the opening volley in increasingly partisan struggles over executive power. As such, the dispute is as relevant today as in 1789"--Dust jacket.
Alternative Title
George Washington and the presidential title controversy of 1789
Subjects
Bibliography (note)
  • Includes bibliographical references (pages 227-243) and index.
Contents
Introduction : the title controversy and the early presidency -- "An improper distinction of ranks" : the persistence of titles -- The third body of Washington : sovereignties in confusion -- Protecting the presidency : a republican dilemma -- Debating a "doubtful power" : the legislative battle engaged -- "Strange contradictions" : the people confront status distinction -- A "dangerous vice" : leaders under scrutiny -- Conclusion : the path to American democratic leadership.
Call Number
JFE 16-7069
ISBN
  • 9781501705595
  • 1501705598
  • 9780801452987
  • 0801452988
LCCN
2014007803
OCLC
879583350
Author
Bartoloni-Tuazon, Kathleen.
Title
For fear of an elective king : George Washington and the presidential title controversy of 1789 / Kathleen Bartoloni-Tuazon.
Publisher
Ithaca : Cornell University Press, 2014.
Copyright Date
©2014
Type of Content
text
Type of Medium
unmediated
Type of Carrier
volume
Bibliography
Includes bibliographical references (pages 227-243) and index.
Research Call Number
JFE 16-7069
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