The American presidency was created in a moment of desperation and uncertainty about the failing health of the new nation and its experimental democracy. Rival European countries cheered for its failure, awaiting its collapse. They were ultimately disappointed. The shared powers system created by the Constitution, with a chief magistrate chosen by a free people and partially responsible to Congress, has survived for 230 years. It has helped to build the most powerful nation in the world. The traditions and standards of the American presidency have produced heroes and been durable enough to
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