George Washington And The Cherry Tree

[drmorgans]

When George Washington was a boy someone chopped down his father’s prized cherry tree.

At first young George said he didn’t even know there was a cherry tree in the garden. Then that he knew there was a tree but that he never went near it. Later he admitted he had picked cherries from the tree but definitely didn’t chop it down. Eventually, he confessed that he had chopped the tree down but said other people could have been involved. He asked a kindly neighbour to talk to his family and friends and workers on the estate to find out what they knew. Then the local militia got involved and ordered a full investigation.

Some people say the incident never happened or that it was "just" a tree. Others point to Washington’s honesty in (somewhat belatedly) admitting he had chopped the tree down. Washington is reported as saying he didn’t think he had done anything wrong and that it was “only a stupid tree”.

[wolf63]

https://www.mountvernon.org/library/digitalhistory/digital-encyclopedia/article/cherry-tree-myth

[douglas9401]

Set the standard for politicians since.

[drmorgans]

Many claim the story was allegorical, suggesting that those in high office should be honest and admit their transgressions quickly.

[douglas9401]

Aye? How's that all working out then? :-)

[drmorgans]

Not sure. Maybe later today we will know, or possibly next year.