What tradition was established after George Washington's presidency concerning the length of service in office?

The two-term tradition established after George Washington's presidency became an important precedent for the office of the presidency in the United States. Washington, recognizing the potential dangers of excessive power and the influence of a single individual over time, voluntarily chose not to seek a third term in 1796. His decision was primarily motivated by a desire to prevent the emergence of a monarchy-like scenario and to encourage the principle of democratic leadership and transition.

This tradition was upheld by subsequent presidents until Franklin D. Roosevelt, who was elected to four terms due to the extraordinary circumstances of the Great Depression and World War II. However, the growing concerns about the concentration of power led to the ratification of the 22nd Amendment in 1951, formally limiting the presidency to two terms. Washington's example of stepping down after two terms firmly established the expectation that presidents should not serve indefinitely, thereby reinforcing democratic norms and alternating leadership in the United States.