In the address Washington warns America to guard the Constitution because it is the Constitution that limits government and defends rights and liberties. He also warns the people to guard against political passions and partisanship. Lastly, Washington encourages public virtue and points to religion and morality as its source.
Perhaps most powerful in the Address is Washington’s endorsement of our great experiment and his exhortation to cling to unity and the Constitution. He wrote:
“George Washington’s Farewell Address in 1796
Introduction
“…every day the increasing weight of years admonishes me more and more that the shade of
Remain United
“The name of American, which belongs to you, in your national capacity, must always exalt the just pride of patriotism more than any appellation derived from local discriminations.”
Uphold the Constitution
“The basis of our political systems is the right of the people to make and to alter their constitutions of government. But the Constitution which at any time exists, until changed by an explicit and authentic act of the whole people, is sacredly obligatory upon all.”
Beware of Political Parties
“…they are likely, in the course of time and things, to become potent engines by which cunning, ambitious, and unprincipled men will be enabled to subvert the power of the people and to usurp for themselves the reins of government…”
Stick to Our Morals
“Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports.”
Value Education
“Promote then, as an object of primary importance, institutions for the general diffusion of knowledge.”
Balance the Budget
“As a very important source of strength and security, cherish public credit.”
Avoid Foreign Entanglement
“Observe good faith and justice towards all nations; cultivate peace and harmony with all…”
Forgive My Mistakes
“I shall also carry with me the hope that my country will never cease to view with indulgence and that, after forty-five years of my life dedicated to its service with an upright zeal, the faults of incompetent abilities will be consigned to oblivion, as myself must soon be to the mansions of rest.”