Why forego the advantages of so peculiar a situation? Why quit our own to stand upon foreign ground? Why, by interweaving our destiny with that of any part of Europe, entangle our peace and prosperity in the toils of European ambition, rivalship, interest, humor or caprice?
Washington says the U.S. should stay independent and not get involved in European wars or politics. America should focus on its own peace and growth
The great rule of conduct for us in regard to foreign nations is in extending our commercial relations, to have with them as little political connection as possible
He says America should trade with other countries but avoid political or military alliances.
Against the insidious wiles of foreign influence (I conjure you to believe me, fellow-citizens) the jealousy of a free people ought to be constantly awake, since history and experience prove that foreign influence is one of the most baneful foes of republican government. But that jealousy to be useful must be impartial; else it becomes the instrument of the very influence to be avoided, instead of a defense against it. Excessive partiality for one foreign nation and excessive dislike of another cause those whom they actuate to see danger only on one side, and serve to veil and even second the arts of influence on the other
Washington warns that foreign countries can secretly influence America. We shouldn’t favor or hate other nations too much because it causes unfairness and division.
Promote then, as an object of primary importance, institutions for the general diffusion of knowledge
He says education is very important because citizens need to be informed for democracy to work.
let us with caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion
He says morality cannot survive without religion; faith keeps people honest and good.
Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports
Washington says religion and morality are necessary for the country’s success and people’s happiness.
The alternate domination of one faction over another, sharpened by the spirit of revenge, natural to party dissension, which in different ages and countries has perpetrated the most horrid enormities, is itself a frightful despotism. But this leads at length to a more formal and permanent despotism. The disorders and miseries which result gradually incline the minds of men to seek security and repose in the absolute power of an individual; and sooner or later the chief of some prevailing faction, more able or more fortunate than his competitors, turns this disposition to the purposes of his own elevation, on the ruins of public liberty
Parties take turns ruling and seeking revenge. This could make people accept one strong leader to stop the chaos leading to dictatorship and loss of freedom.
In contemplating the causes which may disturb our Union, it occurs as matter of serious concern that any ground should have been furnished for characterizing parties by geographical discriminations
Washington warns that dividing the country by region (like North vs. South) could weaken national unity
Here, perhaps, I ought to stop. But a solicitude for your welfare, which cannot end but with my life, and the apprehension of danger, natural to that solicitude, urge me, on an occasion like the present, to offer to your solemn contemplation, and to recommend to your frequent review, some sentiments which are the result of much reflection
He says he can’t stop speaking yet because he feels responsible for the country’s safety and wants to share advice for America’s future.
In looking forward to the moment which is intended to terminate the career of my public life, my feelings do not permit me to suspend the deep acknowledgment of that debt of gratitude which I owe to my beloved country for the many honors it has conferred upon me
Washington thanks the people for trusting him as president and says he’s grateful for the nation’s support