LAD #8: Wahington's Farewell Address


 

Summarize:

As George Washington bids farewell to the people of America and his own political power he recounts his apprehension with the continuation of his position for a second term. However, Washington claims that it was his fear for the nation and their insufficient foreign affairs and the disunity that plagued the nation following its revolution was what caused him to run for office for a second term. George Washington also reveals that even though his belief that one single person should not hold executive power for a permanent duration, he also sees how the patriotism of America does not prevent him from doing so. When closing his statements about the brief past of America as an independent country, Washington reflects on the impact America had on him as well as the opportunities and confidence his country provided him with, which essentially allowed him to contributed as much as he could to the benefit of the country he loved. Finally George Washington provides immense advice on the troubles this emerging country will likely face in the years following its independence

Three of George Washington's Biggest Warnings:

1. One of Washington's main warnings was that of the danger of political parties. As he constantly stressed during his farewell address, George Washington made it clear that the preservation of the American union would be essential to America's survival. As political parties, which are often caused by geographical location or differing beliefs, develop, the unity Colonists experienced during the Revolutionary War would dissipate because of conflicting political viewpoints.

2. George Washington also made clear the risks associated with taxes. As Colonists originally began to express their concern with the British government when it began to impose unfair taxes on its American colonies. This bred a sense of fear in the minds of state government officials because although taxes were needed to pay off war debts to their own wealthy citizens, the subject of heavy taxes was still a fresh wound in the American minds. Washington advised his successors of the fine line they must walk when creating taxes. To soft and their debts won't be paid, to harsh and they might cause another rebellion.

3. Additionally, George Washington claims that public credit is essential to preserve the strength and security of the country. To do this Washington stresses the importance of keeping peace with foreign nations as another war would most likely bring their downfall. However, at the same time Washington recognizes the importance of properly defending the country as a whole from any enemy invaders. In this way, America would successfully be able to pay off their debts and become and overall more prosperous.

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Washington's Farewell Address both summed up his success in office as well as provided advice for his successors of how to successfully run America.
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Similar to George Washington's Farewell Address in 1796 is Dwight D. Eisenhower's own Farwell Address in 1961.
Eisenhower's Farewell Address is similar to George Washington's because of the advice both messages convey to the American people. Eisenhower stresses the importance of avoiding further influence of the military as well as professing the dangers of massive spending. As both Presidents bid farewell to office they warn American citizens of the potential dangers that threaten the successfulness of their society.

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