In the 1790s, a written Constitution, or body of laws, did not govern most other nations. Our new constitution was being tested in Philadelphia, and no one knew if it would really work. The real test came when it was time for George Washington to leave the Presidency. The rest of the world changed their leaders very differently, and most countries did not believe that anyone would freely give up political power. Not only would there be a Transfer of Power at the President's House, but some enslaved members of the President's household empowered themselves and chose freedom.

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