VISUAL ACTIVITYA Souvenir Brass Button, 1789 At his inauguration, George Washington wore a suit of plain American fabric, adorned with custom-made buttons engraved with eagles. Similar souvenir buttons, in a variety of sizes, metals, and designs, quickly flooded the market. All carried the same refrain, “Long Live the President,” a twist on the traditional British cheer welcoming a new king to his throne.READING THE IMAGE: What is engraved on this brass button in the center circle and around the edge? Two states had not yet ratified the Constitution; are they included on this button?CONNECTIONS: What was the term of office for presidents under the 1788 Constitution? Could a man serve for life? Do you think the “Long Live” slogan was adopted because it was a habitual ritual for coronation? Or was it a heartfelt wish for a beloved and heroic Washington?

The Granger Collection, New York.