Though not contemporaries, they are both recognized as Fathers of a nation: George Washington for those United States and John A. MacDonald as Canada’s Father of Confederation.
Like any historical figure, each of these men has a story associated with them. As with the stories of many historical figures, these ones told — the ones we choose to tell — of Washington and MacDonald are an embellishment, possibly based on some real event. But their true purpose is to tell us something about the nation, and ourselves as citizens of that nation. The man becomes the embodiment of that fibre, a tangible representation of the nation’s most sacred character.
The story of George Washington and the cherry tree is a well-known anecdote in American folklore, often cited as a tale about honesty. According to the legend, when George Washington was six years old, he received a hatchet as a gift and used it to damage (chop down?) his father’s cherry tree. When his father discovered the damaged tree, he confronted young George. The boy allegedly confessed to his father, saying, “I cannot tell a lie, I did cut it with my hatchet.” Moved by his son’s honesty, his father supposedly forgave him and praised his integrity.
This story was popularised by Mason Locke Weems, an early biographer of Washington, in his book “The Life of George Washington,” first published in 1800. Weems aimed to present Washington as a paragon of virtue and moral character. However, historians widely regard the cherry tree anecdote as apocryphal, a fictional creation meant to teach the value of honesty and to enhance Washington’s legendary status.
The cherry tree story remains a part of American cultural heritage, symbolising the importance of truthfulness and integrity in personal character.
The story about John A. Macdonald, Canada’s first Prime Minister, being drunk during an election speech and vomiting on stage is a well-known anecdote in Canadian political history. This event allegedly took place during the 1867 election campaign. According to the story, Macdonald was giving a speech when he became ill and vomited. He then reportedly quipped, “I get sick…not because of drink, but because I am forced to listen to the ranting of my honourable opponent.” Some versions of the story claim he said his opponent’s policies made him sick.
This tale has been widely circulated and is often cited to illustrate Macdonald’s wit and ability to turn a potentially embarrassing situation to his advantage. However, the authenticity of this exact quote and the specific circumstances surrounding the incident have been debated by historians. Despite the varying accounts, the story persists as part of the lore surrounding Macdonald’s colourful political career.
Hopper, Tristin. 2015. “Everyone Knows John A. Macdonald Was a Bit of a Drunk, but It’s Largely Forgotten How Hard He Hit the Bottle.” National Post, January 9, 2015. https://nationalpost.com/news/canada/everyone-knows-john-a-macdonald-was-a-bit-of-a-drunk-but-its-largely-forgotten-how-hard-he-hit-the-bottle.
Martin, Ged. Fall 2006. “John A. Macdonald and the Bottle.” Tidridge.com. Accessed May 23, 2024. https://www.tidridge.com/uploads/3/8/4/1/3841927/john_a_macdonald_and_the_bottle_article.pdf.
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