How a Roman Inspired George Washington to Step Down

It is common to say that power corrupts, and it is often difficult to let go of power. That is what makes the story of Cincinnatus so inspiring. At a time when Rome was in dire need, the Republic entrusted him with full dictatorial authority. Cincinnatus used this power only as long as necessary—just 15 days—before handing it back to the Senate.

In 458 BC, Rome faced a dire crisis: enemy forces had surrounded a Roman army, prompting the Senate to seek a leader who could resolve the situation. In this era of the Roman Republic, there was no emperor. Governance was handled by a group of senators who held the authority to appoint a dictator—a leader granted absolute power for up to six months in times of emergency.

The Senate chose Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus, a retired Roman soldier who had been living a modest life on his farm. When summoned, Cincinnatus did not hesitate. Leaving his plow in the field, he raised an army, defeated the invaders, and rescued Rome’s soldiers—all in just 15 days. But what made Cincinnatus truly legendary was not his military victory. Instead of clinging to power, he willingly relinquished his dictatorship and returned to his humble life as a farmer.

Cincinnatus became a symbol of leadership and selflessness, inspiring leaders throughout history. The American city of Cincinnati was named in his honor, and his example profoundly influenced George Washington, who stepped down after serving two terms as President—a precedent later codified in the U.S. Constitution. In a world where leaders rarely relinquish power, Cincinnatus stands as a timeless model of serving the public good without personal ambition.

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