George washington spent about 7 of his annual salary on liquor

George Washington’s Extravagant Liquor Spending

When we think of George Washington, we often envision a strong, stoic leader who played a pivotal role in the founding of the United States. However, there is a lesser-known fact about our nation’s first president that might surprise you - he had a penchant for fine liquor. In fact, he spent approximately 7% of his annual salary on alcoholic beverages!

According to historical records, Washington enjoyed a wide variety of spirits, including rum, brandy, and whiskey. He often served these beverages to his guests at Mount Vernon, his beloved estate in Virginia. Washington even took great care in distilling his own whiskey and making his own beer, showcasing his passion for the craft of liquor production.

But what led Washington to spend such a significant portion of his income on alcohol? One possible explanation is the social expectations of the time. In Washington’s era, it was customary for hosts to offer drinks to their guests as a sign of hospitality and prestige. As a respected figure in society, Washington likely felt the need to maintain this tradition and provide high-quality beverages to his visitors.

Washington’s taste for fine liquors was not limited to his personal consumption; he also recognized the economic potential of the alcohol industry. During his presidency, he advocated for a tax on distilled spirits in order to fund the national debt. This decision faced significant opposition and resulted in the Whiskey Rebellion, a protest against the tax. Despite the backlash, Washington stood firm in his belief that taxing alcohol was necessary for the nation’s financial stability.

To put Washington’s liquor spending into perspective, his presidential salary was $25,000 per year. This means that he spent approximately $1,750 annually on alcoholic beverages. Adjusted for inflation, this amount would be equivalent to roughly $44,000 today. While this may seem like a large sum, it’s important to consider the context of Washington’s time. Liquor was not only a symbol of hospitality but also a form of social currency.

In conclusion, George Washington’s love for liquor was evident in both his personal consumption and his political decisions. His annual spending of about 7% of his salary on alcohol highlights the significance of beverages in the social fabric of the 18th century. Today, we can reflect on this intriguing fact and gain a deeper understanding of the complex persona of our first president.

*Please note that this article is based on historical records and the source provided: thrillist.com.