When 'president' was chosen as the title for America's head of state, it was considered highly unusual — even strange — for a leader of a nation.
"mere president will not do. There are presidents of fire companies and cricket clubs. This new federal government must command respect, and the titles of federal office must ensure that respect. How long does Mr. Adams intend to waste this assembly's time on matters of no import? No import. No import. There is nothing of greater importance, Mr. McClay. The office of presidents must have no equal in the world. Neither dignity nor authority can be supported in human minds without the weight of Splendor and majesty. Does the vice president have a title in mind? I do, I do indeed, sir. I have several. His Highness, the president. This is outrageous. His esteemed majesty, the president. Or His excellency, the supreme commander-in-chief, or something of the sort. Perhaps Mr. Adams has not had occasion to peruse our Constitution. It explicitly states no title of nobility shall be granted by the United States. These are not titles of heredity that I am proposing, but titles conferred for merit, and titles that will only accompany positions of high federal responsibility. The motion before us is that the president be addressed as His Highness, the president of the United States of America, and protector of the rights of the same. Those in favor? Aye. Those opposed? No! Rotundity, the vice president and duke of the brain tree."
💬 Discussion
When 'president' was chosen as the title for America's head of state, it was considered highly unusual — even strange — for a leader of a nation.