Under My Vine and Fig Tree: George Washington’s Resignation and Integrity

In this lesson, students will learn about the presidency of George Washington and how it was shaped by integrity. Through this example, students will learn how they can pursue integrity in their own lives.

Walk-In-The-Shoes Questions
As you read, imagine you are the protagonist.

• What challenges are you facing?
• What fears or concerns might you have?
• What may prevent you from acting in the way you ought?

Observation Questions

• Who was George Washington?
• Why did Washington choose to retire instead of staying in office until his death?
• What do George Washington’s actions say about his personal integrity?

Discussion Questions
Discuss the following questions with your students.

• What is the historical context of the narrative?
• What historical circumstances presented a challenge to the protagonist?
• How and why did the individual exhibit a moral and/or civic virtue in facing and overcoming the challenge?
• How did the exercise of the virtue benefit civil society?
• How might exercise of the virtue benefit the protagonist?
• What might the exercise of the virtue cost the protagonist?
• Would you react the same under similar circumstances? Why or why not?
• How can you act similarly in your own life? What obstacles must you overcome in order to do so?

• Students will analyze George Washington’s actions while the President of the United States
• Students will understand how acting with integrity can affect their purpose and identity
• Students will apply this knowledge to the pursuit of integrity in their own lives.