Never delivered as a speech, Washington’s Farewell Address was published as an open letter in 1796 as he declined a third term. It offered enduring counsel on national unity, political parties, and foreign entanglements.
On National Unity
“The unity of government which constitutes you one people is also now dear to you. It is justly so, for it is a main pillar in the edifice of your real independence, the support of your tranquility at home, your peace abroad; of your safety; of your prosperity; of that very liberty which you so highly prize.”
On the Dangers of Faction
Washington warned that the “spirit of party,” meaning excessive partisanship and sectional rivalry, could inflame the community, open the door to foreign influence, and lead to despotism:“Let me now take a more comprehensive view, and warn you in the most solemn manner against the baneful effects of the spirit of party generally. This spirit, unfortunately, is inseparable from our nature… It serves always to distract the public councils and enfeeble the public administration.”
On Foreign Relations
Perhaps the address’s most quoted theme is its caution against permanent foreign alliances:“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… ‘Tis our true policy to steer clear of permanent alliances with any portion of the foreign world.”He also urged the cultivation of religion, morality, and public credit as supports of free government.