What was the Society of the Cincinnati that George Washington was elected to as its first President in 1783?

Founded in 1783 with George Washington as its first President, the Society of the Cincinnati is a fraternal hereditary organization with 13 constituent societies in both the United States and one in France. The stated purpose is “to preserve inviolate those exalted rights and liberties of human nature,” and “to render permanent the cordial affection subsisting among the officers” of the Continental Army who served in the Revolutionary War (1775-1783).

Membership was limited to officers both from the Continental Army or Navy or the French Army and Navy.

Now in its third century, today the Society promotes public interest in the Revolution through its library and museum collections, publications and related activities. It is the oldest, patriotic hereditary society in America.

The name derives from Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus (c. 519 - c. 430 BCE) who was a Roman patrician, statesman and military leader of the early Roman Republic who became a legendary figure of Roman virtue, particularly civic virtue. He worked his own small farm until an invasion prompted his fellow citizens to call for his leadership. He came from his farm and ploughing to assume complete control over the state. Upon achieving a swift victory, he relinquished his power and returned to his farm.

His success and immediate resignation has often been cited as akin to George Washington’s position not to seek a third term of office and as an example of civic virtue, humility, and modesty.