Who was the president who started shaking hands rather than the tradional bow?
Question #23323. Asked by mel.
Last updated Dec 08 2016.
Senior Moments
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Senior Moments
Answer has 4 votes.
Currently voted the best answer.
President George Washington would bow to guests at presidential receptions to avoid physical contact and the tradition lasted through the presidency of John Adams. Washington would rest one hand on a sword and the other holding a hat to avoid the remote possibility of anyone forcing a handshake. Thomas Jefferson ended the tradition of 'bowing' by shaking hands when greeting people. http://somethingfornothing.com/thomas-jefferson-was-the-first-president-to-shake-hands-rather-than-bow/
Response last updated by CmdrK on Dec 08 2016.
Oct 16 2002, 9:38 PM