Life — February 24, 1916 — page 8: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "Shall We Have Another Washington?" This article questions whether America can produce another George Washington. The author contrasts Washington—described as a self-made man from backwoods Virginia with English heritage—with Abraham Lincoln, called "the first American" despite his rough frontier upbringing. The piece argues that while Washington emerged from aristocratic conditions unlikely to recur in democracy, the *stock* that produced him remains viable. However, it expresses doubt that democratic institutions will again permit such a figure's political development. The sidebar illustrations show various American leaders (appearing to be Grant, Cleveland, McKinley, Roosevelt, and others mentioned) as potential successors, though the text suggests none truly replicate Washington's unique combination of character, dignity, and leadership.