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Washington’s Secret Cabinet Code: A Cipher Challenge

Step into history with this cipher challenge inspired by George Washington’s secret communications. Decode an encrypted message using simplified Enigma-style rotor rules and test your cryptographic skills.

Avatar photo Nkahoot 1 month ago 0
Washington’s Secret Cabinet Code

🕵️ Washington’s Secret Cabinet Code

In 1789, George Washington signed the Judiciary Act, establishing the federal court system. Around the same time, he began consulting a group of trusted advisors—what would become the President’s Cabinet. Imagine if he used a cipher machine like the Enigma to send secret messages to his cabinet.

🔐 Cipher Rules: Simplified Enigma

  • Rotor I (R1): Initial shift = 1
  • Rotor II (R2): Initial shift = 3
  • Rotor III (R3): Initial shift = 5

Rotor Movement:

  • R1 advances every letter
  • R2 advances every 2 letters
  • R3 advances every 3 letters

Encoding Process: Each letter is shifted forward by R1, then R2, then R3.

📜 Encrypted Message

LZQXU KZVQG ZKXQJ

🧠 Hint

The original message is a quote attributed to Washington about leadership and responsibility.

🔓 Try Decrypting It Yourself!

Decrypted Message:

🧪 Example Decryption (First Word)

Encrypted Letter Rotor I Rotor II Rotor III Total Shift Decrypted Letter
L1359C
Z23510P
Q34512E
X44614J
U55616E

Can you decrypt the rest? Share your answer in the comments below!

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