Matthew Washington: Difference between revisions
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Washington remains a controversial figure in Virginian history. Many believe that his coup was unjustified and that PM Smith had legitimately won. He succeeded at making Virginia one of the most industrial and stable powers on the continent, but also reigned in political freedoms and destroyed race relations. The Third Republic of Virginia after him would slide Virginia further down a authoritarian road before the Prohibitionist gained power.
=== Washington's Coup ===
Virginia's defeat in the Third Anglo-Virginian War took its toll on Washington. He blamed himself for leaving Salvatia as the cause of their loss. Family and friends kept watch over him as they feared he may take his own life. Washington had spent a good deal of his fortune on investing in Salvatia and now he was facing finical ruin, but so was the rest of the nation. The Economic Collapse of 1875 began on 5 March when the Bank of Henrietta declared bankruptcy due to unpaid debts. Thousands flocked to their banks to withdrawal and many smaller banks soon closed. Inflation and foreclosures soared during the next few weeks.
Political riots began against Prime Minister Smith. He had just formed his third government (Smith III) with Rationalist support as he lost the support of some in his own party. Smith began to involve direct government intervention into the economy something many Passionists were against. Washington was reportedly rebuffed by Smith when he attempted to offer advice to Smith in fear he would bring about the end of their party. This insult pushed Washington over the edge, he now sought to remove Smith from power, but Washington overestimated party officials who still had his backing. The average Virginian supported him, but he lacked the finical backing to run against his own party and the Rationalists.
However, President Reign, an old Fairfax Passionist, announced he was not seeking another term and gave his support to Washington. He would not need the support of party members to gain this office. He began a massive political campaign (the first in Virginian history) across the nation. From Hopewell to Bovenstadt, he gave speeches and meet with voters. Washington may have done more hurt than help to the Passionist as he openly condemned Prime Minister Smith as incompetent and a coward for not continuing the war with the British.
On September 19, Washington had won the presidency with a historical margin, however the Passionist Party held onto their majority, though smaller, and Smith his office. This came as a shock to many. The political unrest during the election was immense and many doubted that Smith would survive the election yet alone win. Many began to claim that the election was rigged, but Rationalist leadership held cooler heads and agreed to the results of the elections. Washington however did not.
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