In 1776, an elite group of soldiers was handpicked to serve as George Washington’s bodyguards. Known as The Lifeguard, they were entrusted with protecting the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army. Washington relied on them, but unbeknownst to him, some of these soldiers were part of a treasonous plot that could have changed the course of history.

A Secret Conspiracy

As the Revolutionary War loomed, a conspiracy emerged involving members of The Lifeguard, then-New York Governor William Tryon, and New York City Mayor David Matthews. Their plan? To turn Washington’s personal troops against him and assassinate him. Such an act would have left the colonies without their leader, giving the British a significant advantage in the war.

Thankfully, Washington uncovered the plot before it could be executed.

Divided Loyalties in the Revolutionary War

Contrary to the common assumption that all Patriots were unwavering in their support for American independence, many were not hardened soldiers but rather civilians—farmers, laborers, and tradesmen—thrust into war. The British exploited their hardships, leading some to switch sides.

One such person was Thomas Hickey, a Continental soldier who was at the center of this plot.

The Betrayal of Thomas Hickey

Thomas Hickey, an Irishman and British Army deserter, joined the colonial militia in Connecticut. His loyalty earned him a coveted place in Washington’s Lifeguard. However, Hickey soon proved to be a disappointment. He was later jailed on suspicion of counterfeiting, and while in prison, he revealed his true intentions.

He confided in a fellow prisoner that he had turned against the cause of independence and was actively recruiting others to support the British. Seeking leniency, one of the inmates reported the plot to the Committee for Detecting and Defeating Conspiracies, led by John Jay. This committee, which played a foundational role in America’s counterintelligence efforts, worked swiftly to dismantle the conspiracy.

As more people talked, the plot unraveled, and Hickey was convicted of mutiny and sedition on June 26, 1776.

A Public Execution and a Warning

On June 28, 1776—just days before the Declaration of Independence was signed—Thomas Hickey was hanged for his crimes. Though he was the only one executed, he was part of a larger scheme that aimed to assassinate Washington.

Washington assembled 20,000 troops and civilians in an open field to witness Hickey’s execution. This public display sent a clear message to Loyalists without revealing the full extent of the plot. In a letter to the Continental Congress, Washington wrote, “I am hopeful this example will produce many salutary consequences and deter others from entering into the like traitorous practices.”

Why Is This Story Not Well Known?

The plot against Washington remains largely hidden history. As the British advanced, the last thing Washington wanted was to broadcast that his own men had turned against him. He understood that perception mattered. In war, the image of a strong and unshakable leader was critical to maintaining trust among his soldiers and the public.

Washington’s Leadership and Legacy

One of the most striking aspects of Washington’s leadership was his modesty. He never made his position about personal ambition or ego. Unlike today’s world, where self-promotion and attention-seeking are often rewarded, Washington led with humility and integrity.

He knew that the cause of independence was greater than himself. Despite the challenges and criticisms he faced, his honesty and devotion to freedom remained unwavering.

Lessons for Today

Just as Washington and his allies exposed and thwarted a dangerous conspiracy, we too live in a complex world filled with unseen threats and challenges. While we may not face assassination plots, we can learn from Washington’s example—choosing to stand for what is right, being vigilant, and striving to do good.

Throughout history, the call has been the same: be aware of the forces around you, change for the better, and continuously seek to do good in your communities. Washington’s example reminds us that strength lies in integrity, courage, and unwavering commitment to what is right.

Let us be strong, have good courage, and let righteousness prevail in our lives. And may the American Republic endure.

George Washington: Victory or Death