[capitan_refugio]

I have recent read "A Brilliant Solution: Inventing the American Constitution" by Prof. Carol Berkin (first published 2002, paperback edition, 2003). I also then re-read the old classic "Miracle at Philidelphia: The Story of the Constitutional Convention, May to September 1787" by Catherine Drinker Brown (1966, 20th edition 1986).

In both books the authors dicuss the sessions in which the office of President of the United States were discussed. There were several competing ideas, including a triumvirate and a President by Committee. Indeed, the idea of "national" office occupied by a solitary individual was very distasteful to some delegates, as it was too close to the idea of a king (who they had dumped just a few years earlier). So I think it is incorrect to suggest that the powers of an existing office were simply being "expanded." I see the Presidency as novel for its time.

The Constitution created a new office, which embodied both the executive power of the government and the role of chief-of-state, without conceding the legislative powers. Hanson and his fellow "presidents" were, in reality, only presiding officials in a governmental body.

But it always makes for a good discussion!

[rustbucket]

Speaking of presidents, here is an odd piece of trivia. It turns out Benjamin Franklin was President of Pennsylvania. Actually, he was President of the Supreme Executive Council of Pennsylvania but called the President of Pennsylvania. For example, from the Journal of the Continental Congress:

Also, according to indorsement, was read a letter from the Secretary for Foreign Affairs, forwarding a letter from the President of Pennsylvania, Benjamin Franklin.