What is another way Washington could have responded to the crisis?

Washington could have responded to the crisis by convening a national conference to address the concerns of the various factions and stakeholders involved. This approach would have allowed for open dialogue and collaboration, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. Additionally, he could have leveraged his influence to promote compromise and mutual understanding, potentially diffusing tensions and leading to a more cohesive resolution. Such proactive engagement might have helped to stabilize the situation more effectively.