Final answer:
George Washington's belief in civil authority was crucial for the survival of the republican government experiment.
Step-by-step explanation:
George Washington's belief in civil authority was a key factor in the survival of the republican government experiment in the United States. His role as the first president and his actions during the Whiskey Rebellion demonstrated that a republican form of government could successfully enforce the laws and protect liberty and property. Washington's belief in the power of civil authority helped establish the legitimacy and stability of the new government, gaining the trust of the people and setting a precedent for future leaders.