Chervinsky, Lindsay M.

OUR SYNOPSIS: Lindsay M. Chervinsky examines how President George Washington created the first United States presidential cabinet, tracking the early development of this institution. She argues that “George Washington and his cabinet asserted presidential prerogative, claimed authority over diplomatic and domestic issues, and rejected challenges from the states and Congress that aimed to diminish executive authority.” (8-9) She asserts that these prominent cabinet roles demonstrate the strength of executive power in the Early Republic. Her timeline begins during the Revolutionary War and extends through Washington’s presidency into the cabinets of his successors. He substantially leveraged his Revolutionary War commander experience in designing his cabinet and overall leadership strategy. By focusing on each cabinet member, she shows how their individual life experiences proved to them the mutually understood need for a strong executive. For example, “[Henry] Knox’s entire career, from brigadier general of the artillery to secretary of war under President Washington, convinced him that the nation required a strong president.” (65) The initial cabinet meeting focused on foreign relations with Britain and France. This agenda reflected what Washington considered the major issues faced by his administration in November 1791. When domestic crises occurred, most notably the Whiskey Rebellion of 1791 to 1794, the cabinet increased its focus on domestic policy.