Washington Farewell Address

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Feb 20, 2024

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1 Washington Farewell Address Lakira West GOVT200_D14 Prof. Michael Anthony 04/17/2023

2 Washington Farewell Address In 1796, as he stepped down as president, George Washington addressed the American people in his "Farewell Address." He offered counsel and direction on what he considered to be the nation's most important problems in this speech. One of the most important messages about democracy, citizenship, and the duties of the government in American history is largely recognized as having come from him. In this analysis, I will look at the important elements of the "Farewell Address" and analyze current government, including whether the cautions and exhortations were heeded. Washington's "Farewell Address" begins with a heartfelt expression of gratitude to the American people and their representatives for the honor they bestowed upon him as their President (Avlon, 2017). He then goes on to emphasize the importance of unity and the danger of political parties, which he believed would divide the nation and undermine the integrity of the government (Pruitt, 2020). Washington warned that political parties would create "cunning, ambitious, and unprincipled men" who would use their power for personal gain rather than the good of the nation. Moreover, despite Washington's warning against political parties, they have become integral to American politics since his presidency (Library of Congress, 2019). The two-party system dominated by the Democratic and Republican parties often engages in heated debates and criticism of each other. However, despite their differences, both parties work together to create laws and policies that benefit the country (Library of Congress, 2019). Although third-party candidates have run for office and even achieved some success, they have yet to be able to break the dominance of the two-party system. The role of political parties in American politics continues to be debated, with some calling for reforms to the system while others argue that it

3 provides stability and a clear choice for voters (Library of Congress, 2019). Regardless of the debates, political parties remain a significant part of American political culture. Another major point in Washington's "Farewell Address" was his warning against foreign entanglements (Pruitt, 2020). He advised against permanent alliances with foreign nations and encouraged the United States to remain neutral in conflicts between other nations. Washington believed that involvement in foreign conflicts would weaken the United States and put the country's safety and prosperity at risk (Pruitt, 2020). This is seen when he said, "It is our true policy to steer clear of permanent alliances with any portion of the foreign world" (Avlon, 2017). Washington's warning about foreign entanglements has been followed to some extent. The United States has been involved in various foreign conflicts, such as World War II and the Vietnam War (Library of Congress, 2019b). However, the country has also been involved in diplomatic efforts to resolve conflicts peacefully, such as the Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt (Carter, 2018). The United States also maintains alliances with various countries through organizations such as NATO. Also another central theme of Washington's address was his emphasis on the importance of religion and morality in American society (Schell, 2023). He believed that a strong moral foundation was necessary for a healthy democracy. For instance, he said, "Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion, and morality are indispensable supports" (Avlon, 2017). Despite this warning, the role of religion in American society has become increasingly contentious, with debates over issues such as abortion, same-sex marriage, and the separation of church and state. One of the most important items Washington felt was of utmost importance as he left office was the preservation of the Constitution and the rule of law. He believed the Constitution

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