George Washington’s Warning After Retirement

After George Washington retired from the Presidency in 1797, he issued a farewell address to the nation in which he warned the people of the United States against partisanship in politics, sectionalism, foreign influence, and the dangers of a large standing army.

Partisanship

In his address, Washington warned against the dangers of partisanship in politics. He argued that it can lead to the formation of political factions and ultimately destroy the unity of the nation. He urged the people to remain united and be wary of any party that seeks to divide the country.

Sectionalism

Washington also warned against the dangers of sectionalism. He argued that sectional interests can lead to divisions among states and threaten the unity of the nation. He urged the people to remain united and to consider the interests of the nation as a whole.

Foreign Influence

Washington also warned against the dangers of foreign influence. He argued that foreign powers can use their wealth and influence to meddle in the internal affairs of the nation. He urged the people to remain vigilant and to avoid entangling alliances with foreign powers.

Standing Army

Finally, Washington warned against the dangers of a large standing army. He argued that such an army can be used to oppress the people and threaten their freedom. He urged the people to remain vigilant and to maintain a small standing army in order to protect the nation.

Related Questions

  • What did George Washington say about religion in his Farewell Address?
  • What did George Washington say about the Constitution in his Farewell Address?
  • What did George Washington say about the economy in his Farewell Address?
  • What did George Washington say about the press in his Farewell Address?
  • What did George Washington say about the judiciary in his Farewell Address?
  • What did George Washington say about foreign nations in his Farewell Address?
  • What did George Washington say about the Union in his Farewell Address?
  • What did George Washington say about the militia in his Farewell Address?
  • What did George Washington say about slavery in his Farewell Address?
  • What did George Washington say about education in his Farewell Address?