By George

Maxims from George Washington

Date published: 2/21/2005

Rules of Civility

GEORGE WASHINGTON: "First in war, first in peace, first in the hearts of his countrymen." How did the man whose birthday we celebrate become so great? Whether as general of the army or president of the United States, Mr. Washington was the epitome of leadership. What's more, he was known for his civility and manners (except on those occasions when his temper overtook him).

In his teen years, according to biographer Richard Brookhiser, young Mr. Washington copied into a notebook 110 "Rules of Civility," 18th-century character education as it were, and apparently attempted to allow them to mold him. Here, from a book edited by Mr. Brookhiser and published by the University of Virginia Press, is a sampling:

1. Every action done in company ought to be done with some sign of respect to those that are present.

12. Shake not your head, feet, or legs, roll not the eyes, lift not one eyebrow higher than the other, wry not the mouth, and bedew no man's face with your spittle by approaching too near him when you speak.

23. When you see a crime punished, you may be inwardly pleased, but always shew pity to the suffering offender.

35. Let your discourse with men of business be short and comprehensive.

37. In speaking to men of quality, do not lean nor look them full in the face, nor approach too near them. At least, keep a full pace from them.

38. In visiting the sick, do not presently play the physician if you be not knowing therein.

40. Strive not with your superiors in argument, but always submit your judgment to others with modesty.

49. Use no reproachful language against any one, neither curse nor revile.

50. Be not hasty to believe flying reports to the disparagement of any.

52. In your apparel be modest and endeavor to accommodate nature, rather than to procure admiration. Keep to the fashion of your equals, such as are civil and orderly with respect to times and places.

56. Associate yourself with men of good quality if you esteem your own reputation; for 'tis better to be alone than in bad company.

81. Be not curious to know the affairs of others, neither approach those that speak in private.

108. When you speak of God or His attributes, let it be seriously & with reverence. Honor & obey your natural parents though they be poor.

109. Let your recreations be manful, not sinful.

110. Labour to keep alive in your breast that little spark of celestial fire called conscience.

Follow us on

Date published: 2/21/2005