ABSTRACT
This chapter describes three historical images: Common Man, Master Politician, the Washington Outsider. It also discusses how these historical images shape and constrain an individual president's ability to adopt personal images. The chapter argues that image creation is not a static phenomenon, but rather one that has evolved over time. It also argues that the common man image was more suited to a time when public expectations were more modest. As public expectations increased, the master politician became a more useful historical image. Presidents governing under this image, however, also greatly increased public expectations. As for the Washington outsider image, presidents who adopt it may not have the necessary political skills to satisfy public expectations. The president was to be selected by the Electoral College, not directly by the public. Justices and judges were to be appointed by the president and with the advice and consent of the Senate.
