I agree. Lovely photo.
Personalities and perceptions are important.
Even George Washington portrayed himself in a certain way as a means of becoming president. In his case he began showing up for the early congressional meetings wearing his military uniform to advertize himself as a leader. He took the seat essentially unopposed with John Adams being the only legitimate opposition.
I remember reading some of the accounts from our founders who spoke of the impressive figure Washington was, standing a full head taller than most and wearing his uniform as a reminder that he had led the revolution to victory.