Do you like your men on horseback? I know I do... Minutes away from hearing @DavidAvromBell discuss his new book with @agordonreed for @nypl #twitterstorians #history #revolution

. @DavidAvromBell discussing #GeorgeWashington's physical prowess, looks, and bearing contributing to his image, especially in the eyes of #AbigailAdams

Celebrity and #charisma as fostering a connection between various leading figures in the people different from monarchs.

. @agordonreed #washington was "Teflon' "at least before the Jay Treaty"

. @DavidAvromBell: #Franklin had celebrity, but not the "political charisma" of #Washington who could replace a king.

Horseback imagery was a sign of power

Bell: Toussaint Louverture given recognition moving closer to equality by white officials because of his horseriding prowess.

Bell compares Toussaint Louverture to #Oroonoko

. @agordonreed: #Napoleon "physically" is the "anti-Washington"
. @DavidAvromBell: #Napoleon was the "worst horseman" in the book because of his short legs

Bell: #Napoleon made connections to #Washington #FrenchWashington

....you don't say. ;)

Bell: #Bolivar was at #Napoleon's coronation

. @agordonreed: Where are the women?
Bell: limited in role due to lack of voting power

Bell following #charisa through 19th century into the modern day

Other 18th/19th c. figures became dictators....not #washington

Bell: #JohnAdams on #Washington "his principle talent was being handsome"

. @agordonreed reads my question to @DavidAvromBell : Why did other figures not follow Washington’s example of surrendering power?

Bell: US was lucky, and the circumstances weren't dire like the others

Bell: Also dependent on the sense of they had of their countries, Bolivar and Napoleon viewed their nations as divided